Skin tags are small growths on the neck, armpits, and groin. While harmless, having many may mean high insulin levels, often a sign of type 2 diabetes. If you suddenly get a lot of skin tags, talk to your doctor about further testing.
High blood sugar can damage blood vessels, slowing wound healing. If small cuts or bruises take longer to heal, it could be a diabetes warning. Slow healing raises the risk of infection, so keeping blood sugar in check is crucial.
Persistent tingling, numbness, or burning in hands, feet, or legs may be nerve damage, or diabetic neuropathy. High blood sugar damages small nerves, causing a pins-and-needles feeling, less sensitivity in extremities, and sharp pain. Early detection can prevent more nerve damage, so check for diabetes if you have persistent numbness or tingling.
Ignoring early signs can lead to serious health problems like heart disease, kidney failure, vision loss, and nerve damage. But diabetes can be managed, and prediabetes can sometimes be reversed with lifestyle changes like a healthy diet, regular exercise, and blood sugar monitoring.
If you have any of these symptoms, visit your healthcare provider to discuss diabetes screening. Diabetes doesn’t develop suddenly; it starts with mild symptoms people often ignore. Recognizing these signs early helps you manage your health, prevent complications, and live better.
Your health is in your hands. Don’t wait for symptoms to worsen. Listen to your body, seek medical advice, and control your blood sugar today.