Many people have type 2 diabetes without realising. This is because they may not always notice any symptoms.
Symptoms of type 2 diabetes can include:
- peeing more than usual
- feeling thirsty all the time
- feeling very tired
- losing weight without trying to
- itching around your penis or vagina, or repeatedly getting thrush
- cuts or wounds taking longer to heal
- blurred vision
You're more at risk of developing type 2 diabetes if you:
- are over 40 years old, or over 25 if you're from an Asian, Black African or Black Caribbean ethnic background
- have a close relative with diabetes (such as a parent, brother or sister)
- are overweight or living with obesity or are not very physically active
- are from an Asian, Black African or Black Caribbean ethnic background
The Know Your Risk tool from Diabetes UK can help you find out your risk. You can enter information including your ethnicity, age, height, weight and waist measurement, and it will give you an assessment of your personal risk of developing type 2 diabetes and advice about next steps.
See a GP if:
- you have any of the symptoms of type 2 diabetes
- you're worried you may have a higher risk of getting type 2 diabetes
You'll need a blood test, which you may have to go somewhere else for, such as your local health centre or hospital, if it cannot be done at your GP surgery.
The earlier diabetes is diagnosed and treatment started, the better. Early treatment reduces your risk of other health problems.
27 December 2023
