High blood sugar can affect circulation, immune function, and the body’s ability to repair tissue. Small cuts, scrapes, blisters, or bruises may take longer than usual to heal.
This can be especially important on the feet. If blood sugar remains high over time, nerve and circulation changes may make it harder to notice injuries and harder for wounds to heal properly.
Slow wound healing does not always mean diabetes, but it is a sign worth taking seriously, especially if wounds become red, swollen, painful, warm, or infected.
5. Dark Patches of Skin
Dark, thick, or velvety patches of skin may appear on the neck, armpits, groin, elbows, or other body folds. This is sometimes called acanthosis nigricans and can be linked with insulin resistance.
Insulin resistance means the body is having trouble using insulin effectively. This is often connected with prediabetes and type 2 diabetes risk.
These skin changes do not confirm diabetes by themselves. However, if dark patches appear suddenly or become more noticeable, it is a good idea to ask a doctor whether blood sugar testing is needed.
6. Blurred Vision
