Diabetes has been diagnosed in about 3.7 million people in the UK.
There are mainly two types of diabetes, and around 90 per cent of all cases are caused by type 2.
Common diabetes symptoms include unexplained weight loss, blurred vision, and frequent infections.
But, you could also be at risk of high blood sugar if you have hearing loss, it’s been claimed.
Hearing loss is an “unusual” sign of diabetes, according to Qured Head of Operations and Doctor, Dr Amy Bibby.
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It may be caused by damage to the blood vessels in the ears.
Blood vessels can become damaged if a patient has high blood sugar, she said.
“Some people may experience more unusual symptoms and signs of diabetes,” Bibby told Express.co.uk.
“It is usually a range and combination of different symptoms that a patient will experience before being diagnosed with diabetes, and it will vary case to case.
“Hearing loss can be another more unusual, pre-diabetic symptom in those who have higher blood sugar, as the blood vessels and nerves of the ears are more likely to be damaged.”
Having inflamed or infected gums – or periodontitis – could also be an indication of diabetes, she said.
High glucose levels in the mouth can help bacteria to grow, and instigate gum disease.
Some patients may have skin discolouration – particularly on the back of their neck and under their arms.
The changing skin colour is linked to insulin resistance, and therefore diabetes, she added.
Other unusual signs of diabetes include itchiness, and an improvement in eyesight for some individuals.
“Type 2 diabetes is when your pancreas cannot produce enough insulin or the body’s cells do not react to insulin,” said Bibby.
“Insulin is essential for humans to live, allowing glucose broken down from foods and drinks to enter our cells to fuel our bodies.”
Left untreated, diabetes can lead to further complications, including damage to the eyes, foot problems, heart attacks, strokes, and kidney problems.
Diabetes can sometimes be treated with lifestyle changes, such as with diet or exercise.
But, you should always speak to a GP if you’re having the signs of diabetes.