Could I Have Diabetes? Early Signs, Symptoms and Testing

Have you ever caught yourself wondering, "Could I have diabetes?" You're not alone — it's one of the most searched health questions online, and for good reason.

In Australia, more than 1.3 million people are currently living with diabetes. What's more concerning is how many people have it and don't yet know.

Type 2 diabetes in particular can develop quietly, with no obvious symptoms for months or even years. That's why knowing the early signs — and getting tested if you're at risk — matters so much.

In this article, we'll cover:

• Early signs and symptoms of diabetes
• The difference between type 1 and type 2 diabetes
• What pre-diabetes is, and what you can do about it
• When and how to get tested

7 Signs and Symptoms to Look Out For

If you've asked yourself "could I have diabetes?", here are the symptoms to watch for. They can be subtle at first, especially with type 2 diabetes. Some of the most common early warning signs include:

• Frequent urination — high blood glucose causes the kidneys to filter excess sugar into the urine.
• Increased thirst — you lose fluid through urination, which leads to dehydration.
• Unexplained weight loss — especially in type 1 diabetes, when the body can't absorb glucose for fuel.
• Fatigue — when cells can't get energy from sugar, tiredness sets in.
• Blurred vision — blood sugar fluctuations can affect fluid levels in the eyes.
• Slow-healing cuts or wounds — high blood sugar impairs the body's natural healing response.
• Tingling or numbness — early signs of nerve damage (diabetic neuropathy), often in the hands or feet.

Some people experience no symptoms at all, especially in early-stage type 2 diabetes or pre-diabetes — which is why regular screening is so important.

Type 1 or Type 2 Diabetes: What's the Difference?

Both types lead to elevated blood sugar, but their causes and treatments differ significantly.

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the body attacks its own insulin-producing cells. It usually develops before age 30 and always requires insulin.

Type 2 diabetes involves insulin resistance and is linked to lifestyle and genes. It often develops after age 45, though it can occur earlier. It's managed through lifestyle change and, when needed, medication.

Type 1 diabetes is not preventable. Type 2 diabetes, however, is largely linked to lifestyle factors and is often preventable or manageable with the right support — particularly through diet, regular physical activity, and a healthy weight.

What Is Pre-Diabetes?

Pre-diabetes means your blood glucose is higher than expected, but not yet high enough to be classified as diabetes. It's your body's early warning system — and your window of opportunity.

The encouraging news is that for many people, pre-diabetes can be improved — and sometimes reversed — with sustained dietary and lifestyle change [evidence citation needed]. Research from the Diabetes Prevention Program and Diabetes Australia indicates that even modest changes can have a significant positive effect. These include:

• Losing 5–7% of your body weight (if you're above your healthy range)
• Being active for at least 150 minutes per week
• Choosing low-GI, high-fibre foods (like vegetables, legumes, and whole grains)
• Reducing sugary drinks and ultra-processed snacks

Making these changes can not only lower your diabetes risk but also support your energy, sleep, mood, and heart health.

How to Get Tested in Australia

If you're over 40, have a family history of diabetes, are carrying extra weight, or have had gestational diabetes, it's a good idea to speak with your GP about testing.

Common diabetes tests include:

• Fasting blood glucose test
• HbA1c test (your average blood sugar over the past 2–3 months)
• Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT)

These are simple blood tests that Medicare usually covers with a GP referral. Your doctor can help interpret the results and guide your next steps if needed.

What Can I Do Right Now?

If you're unsure whether you're at risk, you don't need to navigate it alone. Taking that first step is often the hardest — but also the most powerful.

Work with us: Explore our pre-diabetes support in Brisbane, and download the free Blood Sugar guide to get started. We'll help you explore your options with clarity and confidence — no pressure, no judgment, just genuine support.

About the author: Dorelle Thompson, Accredited Practising Dietitian (APD097042). [/about-dorelle-wellness-nutrition]

Related: Type 2 diabetes support in Brisbane · Insulin resistance support in Brisbane · 5 Questions About Diabetes

CTA: Coming up next: "What Can I Eat with Diabetes?" In the meantime, book a free 20-minute call.

References

• Diabetes Australia. (2024). What is Diabetes?
• Mayo Clinic. (2024). Diabetes — Symptoms and Causes.
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2024). Prediabetes: Your Chance to Prevent Type 2 Diabetes.
• Australian Department of Health and Aged Care. (2023). Diabetes Testing and Management in Primary Care.