- Many people have no symptoms early on.
- Thirst, frequent urination, tiredness and blurry vision are common signs.
- An A1C of 6.5 percent or higher is in the diabetes range.
- Adults 35 and older, and anyone with risk factors, should be screened.
Common early signs
- Being very thirsty
- Urinating often, including at night
- Feeling tired
- Blurry vision
- Cuts or infections that heal slowly
- Tingling in the hands or feet
- Dark, velvety skin patches on the neck or armpits
Who should be tested
The US Preventive Services Task Force recommends screening adults aged 35 to 70 who have overweight or obesity. The American Diabetes Association recommends testing all adults starting at age 35, and earlier for people with risk factors such as family history, high blood pressure, PCOS, a history of gestational diabetes, or South Asian, Black, Hispanic or Native American heritage.
What the numbers mean
| Test | Normal | Prediabetes | Diabetes |
|---|---|---|---|
| A1C | Below 5.7 percent | 5.7 to 6.4 percent | 6.5 percent or higher |
| Fasting glucose | Below 100 mg/dL | 100 to 125 mg/dL | 126 mg/dL or higher |
Catching diabetes early gives you the best chance to control it, and sometimes to put it into remission with weight loss.
Learn more on our page about Type 2 diabetes treatment in Chicago, or get in touch to request a visit.
Triple board-certified endocrinologist and obesity medicine specialist in Chicago. This article is for general education and is not medical advice.