LaborPress | Kerri O’Brien | November 9, 2025
Diabetes often develops quietly. You may feel fine for months—or even years—before obvious symptoms appear. That’s why awareness matters. Recognizing the warning signs early can make all the difference in preventing long-term complications.
This National Diabetes Month, LaborPress continues our mission to help every worker take control of their health—because your body deserves the same care and attention you give your job.
Why Recognizing the Symptoms Matters
When your blood sugar levels remain too high for too long, your body begins to send out warning signals. But these signs are easy to dismiss as “just getting older” or “being tired from work.” Learning to recognize them can help you catch problems early—before they become serious.
Common warning signs of diabetes include:
- Increased thirst and frequent urination
- Constant fatigue or low energy
- Blurred vision
- Slow-healing cuts or frequent infections
- Tingling or numbness in hands or feet
- Unexplained weight loss (more common in Type 1 diabetes)
- Increased hunger even after eating
- Irritability or mood changes
If any of these sound familiar—or if you’re at higher risk—talk to your healthcare provider. A simple test can tell you if your blood sugar levels are normal, borderline, or high.
A1C vs. Blood Glucose Testing: What’s the Difference?
Two main tests can help determine whether you have diabetes or prediabetes. Understanding them helps you make sense of your results and track your progress.
1️⃣ A1C Test (Hemoglobin A1C)
The A1C test measures your average blood sugar levels over the past three months.
It shows how much glucose has attached to your red blood cells (hemoglobin).
You don’t need to fast before this test, which makes it convenient for workplace screenings.
| A1C Level | Meaning |
| Below 5.7% | Normal |
| 5.7%–6.4% | Prediabetes |
| 6.5% or higher | Diabetes |
A higher A1C means your blood sugar has been elevated consistently, not just on the day of testing.
2️⃣ Blood Glucose (Fasting or Random)
This test measures your blood sugar at a single point in time—either after fasting or at any random time.
Fasting Blood Glucose (after 8 hours with no food):
| Level (mg/dL) | Meaning |
| Below 100 | Normal |
| 100–125 | Prediabetes |
| 126 or higher | Diabetes |
Random Blood Glucose (any time of day):
| Level (mg/dL) | Meaning |
| 200 or higher, with symptoms | Diabetes |
Your provider may confirm results with a second test to ensure accuracy.
If You Notice Symptoms—Take Action
Ignoring the signs can lead to serious complications over time, such as heart disease, vision loss, kidney problems, and nerve damage. But when caught early, diabetes is highly manageable—and in many cases, prediabetes can be reversed entirely.
Start with a conversation:
- Ask your union health fund or provider for an A1C or glucose test.
- Bring a list of any symptoms you’ve noticed.
- Keep track of changes in your energy, vision, or weight.
You’re not alone—many union wellness programs now include free screenings, nutrition support, and even digital tools to help you manage your health right from your phone.
Knowledge Is Power—and Prevention
Knowing your numbers gives you control. If your results are in the prediabetes range, your healthcare provider can help you make small, sustainable changes that lower your risk:
- Eat balanced meals with less added sugar and processed foods.
- Move more—aim for 30 minutes of walking, stretching, or physical activity most days.
- Prioritize sleep and stress management.
Remember: diabetes is not just about blood sugar. It’s about taking charge of your overall well-being—physically, mentally, and emotionally.
So if you notice the signs, don’t delay. Get tested. Know your numbers. Take action.
Your health is the foundation of your family, your job, and your union strength.
Follow LaborPress this month for more tools, tips, and real stories from workers taking control of their health.
