Signs and symptoms of diabetes sometimes do not appear and because one is feeling fine, shock will set in when the diagnosis is made. This is because often there are no symptoms early in the game. Nowhere is this more true than with type 2 diabetes.

That is why it is good to get tested for diabetes if one is at risk. This way, strategies to turn around the tide can be laid out. There is a chance then to reverse its coming or at least prevent the complications. Otherwise, if one finds out he has diabetes after the complications have arrived, then the fight will be a harder battle to win.

Here are the warning signs and symptoms of diabetes:

* Weight gain which is more common in type 2 diabetes and weight loss which is common in type 1
* Blurry vision or any change in sight.
* Cuts, bruises and infections that are slow to heal
* Tingling or numbness or loss of feelings in hands and feet
* Frequent infections of gums and skin
* Flu-like feeling including extreme fatigue and weakness
* Frequent and constant hunger

The two classic signs and symptoms of diabetes are:

* Constant thirst
* Increased urination

Weight gain or loss - Before diagnosis, some patients with type 1 diabetes lose weight. Why does this happen? Well with all the urination, glucose is lost and with glucose loss, naturally some calories are lost causing weight loss.

Where do they get energy that a person needs? From the fats stored of course. The trouble is there is not enough glucose to generate growth, hence the loss of weight. This is not noticeable among the type 2 diabetics because they are usually overweight.

Blurry vision or any change in eyesight - The extra glucose in the blood extracts the fluid out of the lenses of the eyes. When this happens, the lenses are made thin to the point that they are not able to focus properly. There is nothing to worry because lowering the glucose level will bring back the fluid to the lenses. In time, the vision will return.

There is another thing to watch out with the eyesight. The high blood glucose will result in the formation of the tiny blood vessels in the eyes. This can cause bleeding that may result in flashing lights, dark spots and even blindness.

Since there are no signs and symptoms of diabetes that will give a clue to the eye changes, it is imperative to see an eye specialist regularly. The eye specialist will be able to see the blood vessels in each retina by dilating the pupils. This way, whatever changes are detected some steps can be taken to slow down the progression.

Sores and infections that are frequently occurring and slow to heal - This is another one of those signs and symptoms that will give one an idea that the high blood sugar level is blocking the natural ability of the body to fight infections.