A staggering 20 per cent of Britain's population currently lives with either diabetes or pre-diabetes, according to health experts.
The condition is broadly caused by problems producing and using insulin, the hormone that makes it possible for cells to take up glucose for energy. Unfortunately, the warning signs don't always appear until the disease has progressed.
Pharmacy Superintendent at Superdrug, Niamh McMillan, has shared crucial insights about recognising the condition's warning signs and warned that key differences exist between diabetes variants.
The expert explained: "Type 1 happens when a person cannot produce insulin, a hormone that helps the body turn glucose into energy".
Key differences exist between type 1 and type 2 diabetes symptoms
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On the other hand, type 2 diabetes happens "when the body does not make enough of or does not use insulin properly".
Pre-diabetes represents an intermediate stage where blood glucose levels exceed normal ranges but remain below the threshold for Type 2 diagnosis.
While the symptoms of both diabetes types share significant similarities, McMillan noted that "type 1 diabetes symptoms tend to come on more quickly and are usually more severe than Type 2 diabetes", with unexplained weight loss one of the key signs.
With type 2 symptoms being more subtle, numerous individuals remain undiagnosed, with McMillan noting: "Many people have Type 2 diabetes without even realising, therefore it's important to be aware of the signs."
Key indicators include excessive thirst, increased nighttime urination, persistent hunger despite eating, and ongoing fatigue.
McMillan also confirmed that many type 2 diabetics enter remission when glucose levels stabilise at healthy ranges without medication.
"Losing weight, especially around the waist, is the most effective way to help put Type 2 diabetes into remission," she advised.
A nutritious diet emphasising vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains helps control blood glucose, while limiting processed foods and refined sugars can further prevent dangerous spikes.
Physical activity proves equally vital, with McMillan recommending "at least 150 minutes a week, that's the equivalent of 20-30 minutes a day" to support weight reduction and counter diabetes effects.
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High blood sugar can trigger a host of symptoms
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For those worried about potential diabetes, Superdrug provides multiple testing options across its locations.
Their high street clinics feature an HbA1c assessment, also called the Diabetes Check Blood Test, priced at £59, which evaluates pre-diabetes and Type 2 diabetes risk levels.
The pharmacy chain's online services include a Diabetes Test Kit starting at £40 and Type 2 Diabetes Treatment and Testing from £20. Both digital options incorporate professional medical evaluations and guidance.
"If you're concerned that you may have diabetes, then Superdrug offers a range of diabetes tests to help individuals," McMillan noted, encouraging early detection through accessible screening services.