• People with diabetes have trouble maintaining and regulating their blood sugar level, usually because the pancreas does not produce enough of the hormone insulin. There are two types of diabetes. Type 1 diabetes, also called juvenile diabetes, is usually diagnosed in children and adolescents. Type 2 diabetes, which is sometimes referred to as adult onset diabetes, is most often related to an unhealthy lifestyle and is largely preventable. Type 2 diabetes most commonly develops in adults; but as obesity rates have risen in children, Type 2 diabetes has become more prevalent in this demographic, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics.
  
  

Increased Hunger and Thirst

• People who develop diabetes may notice they are more hungry and thirsty than usual. In some cases, hunger pangs are constant, despite eating regularly. Increased fluid intake also contributes to more frequent urination in people developing diabetes. Despite increased hunger and thirst, many people with diabetes also begin to lose weight. These symptoms develop as the body responds to high blood glucose levels, a condition called hyperglycemia.
  
  

Infections

• Another sign of the onset of diabetes is more frequent infections, such as skin or urinary tract infections. People who have diabetes may also notice that wounds and skin abrasions heal much more slowly than normal. This occurs because high blood sugar levels can suppress the immune system.
  
  

Fatigue

• Unexplained fatigue, weakness or exhaustion can also be signs of the onset of diabetes. Increased fatigue is the body's response to excess glucose in the blood. However, fatigue and weakness are also signs of many other medical conditions, so this symptom may be overlooked in an initial assessment.
  
  

Vision Changes

• Some people who have developed diabetes may also notice changes in their vision, such as double or blurred vision. Changes in vision develop when blood glucose levels are excessive levels, and neurological function can be impaired.
  
  

Diabetic Ketoacidosis

• Oftentimes, a person can develop diabetes without noticing any signs or symptoms. In some cases, the first noticeable sign of diabetes may be when a condition called diabetic ketoacidosis develops. Ketoacidosis is caused by extreme levels of blood sugar. Symptoms include stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, rapid and shallow breathing, a flushed appearance, a fruity-smelling odor on the breath, dry skin and a dry mouth.