Understanding Diabetes: Signs, Risks, and When to See Your GP

Oct 5

4 min read

Diabetes is one of the most common chronic conditions in Australia, affecting around 1.3 million Australians. Yet many people live with it for years without realising it. Whether you are concerned about your own health or want to learn more for someone you care about, this guide covers what diabetes is, what to watch for, and how your GP can help.

What Is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a condition where the body cannot properly regulate blood sugar (glucose) levels. Glucose is the body's main source of energy, and insulin, a hormone made by the pancreas, helps move that glucose from the blood into the body's cells. When this process does not work as it should, glucose builds up in the bloodstream instead of being used for energy.

Over time, persistently high blood sugar can affect the heart, kidneys, eyes, nerves, and other organs. The good news is that diabetes is a manageable condition, and with the right support, many people lead full, healthy lives.

Types of Diabetes

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the body's immune system attacks the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. It is usually diagnosed in children and young adults, and it requires daily insulin therapy to manage.

Type 2 diabetes is the most common form, accounting for around 85–90% of all cases. In Type 2 diabetes, the body either does not produce enough insulin, or the body's cells do not respond to it effectively. It is often linked to lifestyle factors, though genetics also plays a role. Type 2 diabetes can frequently be managed with lifestyle changes, medication, or a combination of both.

Gestational diabetes develops during pregnancy and usually resolves after birth. However, it does increase the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes later in life for both the mother and the child, so ongoing monitoring is important.

Signs and Symptoms to Watch For

Diabetes symptoms can develop gradually and are easy to overlook. Some common signs include:

Increased thirst and a dry mouth that does not seem to go away
Frequent urination, particularly at night
Unusual fatigue or a persistent lack of energy
Blurred vision
Slow-healing cuts, sores, or wounds
Unexplained weight loss (more common in Type 1)
Tingling, numbness, or pain in the hands or feet
Frequent infections, such as skin or urinary tract infections

It is worth noting that some people with Type 2 diabetes have no obvious symptoms at all, which is why regular health checks are so valuable, even if you feel well.

Risk Factors for Diabetes

Anyone can develop diabetes, but certain factors can increase the likelihood:

Family history: Having a parent or sibling with Type 2 diabetes raises your risk.
Age: The risk of Type 2 diabetes increases from around age 45, though it is increasingly diagnosed in younger people too.
Weight: Carrying extra weight, particularly around the abdomen, is one of the most significant risk factors for Type 2 diabetes.
Physical inactivity: A sedentary lifestyle can reduce the body's sensitivity to insulin.
Ethnicity: People of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander background, South Asian, East Asian, Middle Eastern, or Pacific Islander heritage are at higher risk.
History of gestational diabetes: Having had diabetes during a previous pregnancy increases the risk of Type 2 diabetes later.
Pre-diabetes: If a blood test has previously shown higher-than-normal blood sugar levels, you are at increased risk and monitoring is important.
Other health conditions: High blood pressure, high cholesterol, and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) are also associated with an increased risk.

What You Can Do

Many risk factors for Type 2 diabetes can be addressed through everyday choices. Small, consistent changes can make a meaningful difference to your blood sugar levels and overall health.

Eat well. A balanced diet with plenty of vegetables, wholegrains, legumes, and lean proteins, and less refined sugar and processed food, can support healthy blood sugar levels. If you would like personalised guidance, our dietitians, Connie Su (available Mondays) and Sreenithi Gopalakrishnan (available Thursdays), can work with you on a plan that suits your lifestyle.

Move regularly. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate activity most days. Walking, swimming, or cycling are good options. Regular physical activity can improve how the body uses insulin.

Manage your weight. Even modest weight loss, in those who are overweight, may help reduce the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes or support better management if you already have it.

Avoid smoking. Smoking is associated with a higher risk of Type 2 diabetes and can make diabetes complications more likely.

Get regular check-ups. Routine blood tests can detect raised blood sugar levels early, before symptoms appear. If you have risk factors, speaking with your GP about a health assessment is one of the most practical steps you can take.

When to See Your GP

You should book an appointment with your GP if:

You have noticed any of the symptoms described above
You have one or more risk factors for diabetes and have not had a recent blood test
You have previously been told you have pre-diabetes or borderline blood sugar levels
You are pregnant, or planning a pregnancy, and want to discuss gestational diabetes screening
You have been diagnosed with diabetes and would like support with managing it

Dr Jake Wee has a special interest in diabetes care and chronic disease management and is available to help with assessment, monitoring, and long-term planning.

Book an Appointment at Southlands General Practice

If you have concerns about diabetes, or simply want peace of mind, our team at Southlands General Practice in Willetton is here to help. A GP consultation can include a thorough assessment, blood sugar testing, and a personalised plan to support your health.

Book online via HealthEngine: https://healthengine.com.au/medical-centre/wa/willetton/southlands-general-practice/s99841

Call us: 08 6311 4050

We are located at Shop 07/08 HomeCo Southlands Boulevarde, 45 Burrendah Blvd, Willetton WA 6155. Bulk billing is available for eligible patients on weekdays.

This article is intended for general health information only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please speak with your GP about your individual health needs.