Diabetes: Lesser-known symptoms women should be careful about - The Times of India

Every year on November 14, World Diabetes Day aims to raise awareness about diabetes, focusing on prevention and management strategies. The 2025 theme emphasizes ‘Diabetes and the workplace,’ shedding light on how workplace stress can exacerbate diabetic symptoms, especially in women. Classic symptoms like excessive thirst or frequent urination are widely known, but subtle indicators often go unnoticed, leading to serious complications. Women, in particular, experience unique risks related to diabetes due to hormonal changes, pregnancy, and conditions like Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). Symptoms such as recurrent infections, skin changes, menstrual irregularities, unexplained joint pain, and fatigue may signal early diabetes warning signs that are commonly dismissed as stress or aging. Recognizing these signs is crucial, as they can prompt timely medical advice and lifestyle adjustments that may greatly improve health outcomes. Health professionals stress the importance of early detection to prevent long-term damage to vital organs like the heart and kidneys.