Warning signs of a 'silent killer'

About 38 million Americans have diabetes. Of those, nearly 9 million don’t even know they have it.

Diabetes, often dubbed the “silent killer,” can go undetected for years if you’re not aware of the warning signs.

It’s easy to go undiagnosed if you’re asymptomatic or don’t know what to look for.

Early detection is essential to prevent serious complications such as heart disease, kidney failure and vision problems.

“Unless you’re having regular checkups and blood tests, you’re probably fine, which is why prediabetes, and even type 2 diabetes, can be a ‘silent disease,’” says registered dietitian Alison Massey, owner of Flourish Nutrition Therapy & Wellness.

Here are some crucial warning signs to watch for:

Increased thirst
Frequent urination
Extreme hunger
Unexplained weight loss
Fatigue
Blurred vision
Slow healing wounds
Numbness or tingling in the limbs

To prevent these problems, Massey said, “Exercise, as I always say, is free medicine for the body. It reduces blood sugar levels, and at least 30 minutes of daily activity is certainly recommended.”

She also recommends eating healthier, which includes incorporating more whole foods, fruits and vegetables, as well as cutting back on sugar and alcohol, getting at least seven hours of sleep a night, losing weight and quitting smoking.

If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, don’t wait. See a healthcare professional immediately.

For more information about diabetes and its management, visit diabetes.org.