This nighttime symptom may signal a chronic disease: Expert warns of silent red flags for diabetes risk you shouldn't ignore

Waking up often at night to use the bathroom may seem harmless, but health experts say it could be your body’s way of signaling an underlying condition: type 2 diabetes. According to Mirror, which cited advice from Niamh McMillan, Pharmacy Superintendent at Superdrug, certain overlooked symptoms can point to rising blood sugar issues that, if untreated, may progress silently.

The four red flags to watch for
McMillan highlighted four key signs that deserve attention: unusual thirst, frequent urination (particularly at night), unexplained hunger, and persistent fatigue. While these symptoms can be linked to other health concerns, their persistence should not be ignored. “Many people have type 2 diabetes without even realising, therefore it’s important to be aware of the signs,” she told Mirror.

Why type 2 diabetes is different
Type 1 diabetes usually appears suddenly in childhood, but type 2 develops gradually, often going unnoticed for years. The condition stems from the body’s inability to use insulin properly or produce enough of it. Left unmanaged, this can lead to serious complications, though in some cases type 2 diabetes can be pushed into remission with lifestyle changes.

What you can do to lower your risk
McMillan recommended simple but powerful steps: losing weight, especially around the waist, staying active for at least 150 minutes per week, and choosing whole, unprocessed foods over sugary or refined alternatives. These measures, she explained, can help regulate blood sugar and improve insulin sensitivity.

A restless night could be more than a minor inconvenience—it might be your body raising an alarm. Experts urge people not to dismiss persistent thirst, fatigue, or nighttime urination, but instead consider medical testing to rule out or manage diabetes early. With awareness and lifestyle changes, the risks can be reduced, and in some cases, remission is within reach.