Diabetes: 8 Early Signs, the Tests That Confirm It and How to Live Well
Frequent urination, constant thirst, tiredness and slow-healing wounds can be early signs of diabetes. Learn the warning signs, the blood sugar numbers and how to manage diabetes day to day.
- Written by
- Primegala Clinical Team
- Published
- Reading time
- 2 min read
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Short answer: Early signs of diabetes include frequent urination, constant thirst, unusual hunger, unexplained weight loss, tiredness, blurred vision, slow-healing wounds and tingling in the feet. A simple blood sugar test confirms it. A fasting level of 7.0 mmol/L or higher usually indicates diabetes.
Diabetes is becoming more common in Kenya, including in rural and peri-urban areas like Nakuru North. Many people live with it for years without knowing. The good news is that with early diagnosis, people with diabetes live full, active lives.
8 early warning signs
- Passing urine often, especially at night
- Feeling very thirsty
- Feeling hungry even after eating
- Losing weight without trying
- Feeling tired all the time
- Blurred vision
- Cuts and wounds that heal slowly, or frequent infections
- Tingling, numbness or burning in the hands or feet
Who should be tested
Get your blood sugar checked if you:
- Are over 40
- Are overweight or carry weight around the waist
- Have a parent or sibling with diabetes
- Have high blood pressure
- Had diabetes during pregnancy, or a baby weighing over 4 kg
Understanding the numbers
| Test | Normal | Diabetes (usually) |
|---|---|---|
| Fasting blood sugar | Below 6.1 mmol/L | 7.0 mmol/L or higher |
| Random blood sugar | — | 11.1 mmol/L or higher with symptoms |
| HbA1c | Below 5.7% | 6.5% or higher |
A diagnosis is confirmed by a clinician, usually with a repeat test.
Living well with diabetes
- Eat for balance: more vegetables, beans and whole grains; smaller portions of ugali, rice and chapati; fewer sugary drinks and sodas.
- Stay active: aim for 30 minutes of activity most days.
- Take medicine as prescribed and never run out.
- Check your feet daily for cuts or sores.
- Get regular reviews for blood sugar, blood pressure, eyes and kidneys.
Seek care urgently if
Someone with diabetes is confused, very drowsy, vomiting repeatedly, breathing fast, or sweating and shaky (possible low blood sugar). Give sugar or a sweet drink if they're conscious and able to swallow, then come in.
Diabetes care at Primegala
Our diabetes and hypertension clinic at Maili Sita offers sugar checks, reviews and refills, with reminders (if you want them) so you stay on track. Book a sugar check.
At Primegala
Diabetes & Hypertension Clinic
Regular checks, medication reviews and lifestyle support for long-term conditions.
- Open 24 hours, every day, including public holidays
- Maili Sita, opposite Kiamaina Primary School
- SHA accepted for eligible services
Frequently asked questions
What blood sugar level indicates diabetes?
A fasting blood sugar of 7.0 mmol/L or higher, a random blood sugar of 11.1 mmol/L or higher with symptoms, or an HbA1c of 6.5% or higher usually indicates diabetes. A clinician confirms the diagnosis.
Can diabetes be prevented?
Type 2 diabetes can often be prevented or delayed by maintaining a healthy weight, staying active and eating a balanced diet.