Affinity Health, a leading provider of high-quality health cover, explores the warning signs of diabetes that often go unnoticed but should never be ignored.
In South Africa, more than 4.5 million people are living with diabetes, and many don’t even know it.
Often called the “silent killer”, diabetes can go undetected for months, even years, while quietly damaging organs, blood vessels, and nerves. By the time many people are diagnosed, serious complications have already set in.
What is Diabetes?
Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how your body turns food into energy. With type 2 diabetes (the most common form), your body doesn’t use insulin properly, causing blood sugar levels to rise. If untreated, it can lead to heart disease, kidney failure, blindness, amputations, and more. Type 1 diabetes is less common and usually diagnosed in children and young adults.
Many people dismiss the early symptoms of type 2 diabetes as everyday fatigue, ageing, or stress, which is why it’s so important to stay informed.
The Silent Symptoms You Should Never Ignore
If you or a loved one experience any of the following signs, especially more than one, it’s worth scheduling a check-up:
1. Constant Thirst and Frequent Urination
Needing to urinate often, especially at night, and constantly feeling thirsty may be your body’s way of trying to flush out excess sugar.
2. Unexplained Weight Loss
Losing weight without trying could be a sign that your body isn’t absorbing glucose properly and is using muscle or fat for energy instead.
3. Fatigue and Low Energy
High blood sugar levels can affect how your body uses energy, leaving you constantly tired, even after sleeping well.
4. Blurry Vision
Excess sugar in the blood can cause the eye’s lens to swell, leading to blurred or double vision.
5. Slow-Healing Sores or Frequent Infections
Wounds that take long to heal—especially on the feet—or frequent urinary tract or gum infections may signal poor blood circulation and immune function.
6. Tingling or Numbness in Hands or Feet
This is a sign of nerve damage called diabetic neuropathy and often starts gradually in people with undiagnosed or poorly managed diabetes.
7. Increased Hunger or Cravings
Even after eating, your body might not be processing glucose properly, leading to constant hunger or sudden drops in blood sugar.
8. Dark Patches on the Skin
Patches of dark, velvety skin—often on the neck, armpits, or groin—may be an early indicator of insulin resistance.
Who’s at Risk?
You may be more at risk for diabetes if you:
- If you are overweight or inactive.
- Have a family history of diabetes.
- Are over 45.
- Had gestational diabetes during pregnancy.
- Have high blood pressure or high cholesterol.
- Anyone living with HIV or using certain long-term medications.
Diabetes Self-Check Checklist
Do you feel tired all the time, even with enough sleep?
Are you urinating more often, especially at night?
Have you noticed blurry vision or slow-healing wounds?
Are you thirstier or hungrier than usual?
Do you have any family history of diabetes?
Have you gained weight or become more inactive over time?
If you answered “yes” to more than one, speak to your doctor or clinic about a blood glucose screening.
Affinity Health is a leading medical insurance provider offering a dedicated Diabetes Management Programme. Members get access to GP visits, screenings, chronic medication, and expert support—including after-hours care, reminders, lifestyle guidance, and clinical advice to help manage diabetes with confidence.
Conclusion
Diabetes doesn’t always shout; it whispers. And if you miss the whispers, the damage can be lifelong. But with the appropriate knowledge and early care, you can take control of your health before it’s too late. Whether you’re already at risk or simply want to be proactive, now is the time to listen to your body, ask the right questions, and get the support you need.