Diabetes is a serious condition that can develop silently, with early signs often going unnoticed. Recognizing symptoms early can make a big difference. Dark patches of skin, called acanthosis nigricans, may appear on the neck or armpits, signaling insulin resistance. Unintentional weight loss can occur even with increased appetite, as the body struggles to absorb glucose. Blurred vision may result from blood sugar fluctuations affecting the eye’s lens.

Skin issues like eruptive xanthomatosis (yellowish bumps), numerous skin tags, and slow-healing wounds are also potential red flags. Fatigue is common, due to the body’s inability to convert glucose into energy.