11/03/2026
TUESDAY’S TIPS | NATIONAL DIABETES MONTH
The Youngstown (OH) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated encourages you to know your risk, recognize the signs, and take action.
Diabetes causes blood sugar to become too high when the body does not make enough insulin or cannot use it effectively. Insulin helps blood sugar enter the body’s cells for energy.
Over time, diabetes that is not well managed can damage the eyes, kidneys, nerves, heart, and blood vessels. Complications may include vision loss, kidney failure, heart attack, stroke, and serious foot problems that can lead to amputation. Early diagnosis and ongoing care can help prevent or delay these complications.
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS MAY INCLUDE
• Increased hunger, thirst, or dry mouth
• Frequent urination, especially at night
• Unexplained weight loss
• Unusual tiredness or blurred vision
• Slow-healing sores or wounds
• Frequent infections, including yeast infections
• Numbness or tingling in the hands or feet
SOME PEOPLE HAVE NO NOTICEABLE SYMPTOMS
Contact your healthcare provider about these changes and ask about testing. A family history of diabetes makes discussing your risk especially important.
EMERGENCY WARNING
Fruity-smelling breath can signal diabetic ketoacidosis, a life-threatening emergency. Seek emergency care immediately, especially with vomiting, stomach pain, or rapid or difficult breathing. Call 911 for confusion or loss of consciousness.
LEARN MORE
American Diabetes Association’s free Patient Education Library:
https://professional.diabetes.org/clinical-support/patient-education-library
Together for a Healthier Tomorrow.
SOURCES
CDC — Symptoms:
https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/signs-symptoms/
CDC — Ketoacidosis:
https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/about/diabetic-ketoacidosis.html
NIDDK — Diabetes Overview:
https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/diabetes/overview