Type 2 diabetes: What it means and why early detection is worthwhile even in the absence of symptoms
KD Dr. med. Gurpreet Anand
November 12, 2026
5 min
“I’d definitely notice if I had diabetes.” Not necessarily: type 2 diabetes can develop over many years without any obvious symptoms. That is precisely why it is worth getting checked if you are at increased risk, even if you feel healthy. Dr Gurpreet Anand, Senior Consultant in Endocrinology/Diabetology and Internal Medicine at Zollikerberg Hospital, explains what type 2 diabetes entails, why early detection is important and how the diabetology team can help.
Why does type 2 diabetes often go undetected for a long time?
In type 2 diabetes, the body becomes increasingly less responsive to the hormone insulin – the ‘key’ that allows sugar to pass from the blood into the cells. At the same time, insulin production may decline over time. As a result, more sugar remains in the blood.
This process often develops gradually. As a result, those affected may already have elevated blood sugar levels without noticing any clear symptoms. The body does not ‘cry out’ immediately – and this is precisely why the diagnosis is often made too late.
‘It is precisely because you often do not notice elevated blood sugar levels that early detection is so important,’ explains KD Dr Gurpreet Anand. ‘Do not wait for thirst, tiredness or blurred vision to warn you – if you are at risk, it is worth getting checked even if you have no symptoms.’
Why it makes sense to get checked even without symptoms
Even without symptoms, persistently high blood sugar can put strain on blood vessels, nerves, eyes and kidneys. Many complications develop gradually over the course of years. Anyone with risk factors who knows their levels early on can take action – through lifestyle changes and, if necessary, medication – before any damage becomes noticeable.
Early detection does not mean making you ill. It means getting guidance in good time and making the most of the options available to you.
What symptoms might indicate diabetes?
Type 2 diabetes often causes no clear symptoms, particularly in the early stages. If symptoms do appear, the following changes may occur, for example:
- unusually intense thirst
- frequent urination
- fatigue and reduced energy levels
- dry or itchy skin
- increased susceptibility to infections
- Poorer wound healing
- Vision problems
Such symptoms can have many causes and do not automatically mean you have diabetes. A medical check-up will provide clarity – and it is also advisable even if you feel ‘actually fit’ but have risk factors.
Who is at increased risk – and should get checked even if they have no symptoms?
Various factors can increase the risk, including:
- family history (diabetes in the family)
- being overweight, particularly abdominal fat
- lack of physical activity
- advancing age
- high blood pressure and poor blood lipid levels
- a history of gestational diabetes
- certain medicines (e.g. cortisone) or other pre-existing conditions – this is assessed by your GP
Anyone with risk factors should not necessarily wait until the first symptoms appear. Whether and when a check-up is advisable can be discussed on an individual basis with your GP – and, if necessary, with a diabetes specialist.
We’re here for you
Detecting diabetes at an early stage
Type 2 diabetes can go undiagnosed for a long time without any obvious symptoms. The Department of Endocrinology and Diabetology at Zollikerberg Hospital diagnoses and treats various forms of diabetes mellitus. We work with you to develop a personalised treatment plan – from assessing your test results and determining the appropriate treatment to preventing complications.
How is diabetes diagnosed?
Blood tests can be used to determine whether you have diabetes. The HbA1c level plays an important role: it indicates your average blood sugar levels over the past two to three months or so.
Depending on the circumstances, fasting blood glucose levels or further tests may also be useful. The results are always assessed in the context of your personal situation – a single laboratory result on its own does not tell the whole story.
To put things into context: in practice, fasting blood glucose levels and HbA1c, amongst other things, are taken into account. Your treatment team will explain what applies to you based on your results.
What does prediabetes mean?
Sometimes blood glucose levels are already elevated but do not yet meet the criteria for diabetes. This is often referred to as prediabetes.
At this stage, lifestyle changes can be particularly effective. Regular exercise, a balanced diet and – where medically appropriate – weight loss can reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
“It’s not about turning everything upside down overnight,” explains KD Dr Gurpreet Anand. “What matters are steps that fit into your everyday life – and that you can stick to in the long term.”
Can type 2 diabetes be prevented?
Not all risk factors can be influenced. Age and family history, for example, cannot. When it comes to exercise, diet and body weight, however, there is scope for action. Even moderate, regular physical activity and dietary changes that fit into your daily routine can make a big difference. These measures, when carried out consistently, help to prevent type 2 diabetes.
What happens if diabetes is diagnosed?
Treatment is tailored to the individual. Diet and exercise are key components; depending on the situation, medication may also be prescribed. It’s not just about blood sugar: blood pressure, blood lipids and the risk to the heart, kidneys, eyes and nerves are also taken into account.
At Zollikerberg Hospital, the Endocrinology and Diabetology departments, the diabetes counselling service and the dietary advice service work closely together. The dietary advice service supports you in finding a diet that suits your everyday life and your preferences – to achieve changes that can be sustained in the long term.
Lowering blood sugar: How diet can help with diabetes
Diabetes is affecting more and more people – particularly type 2 diabetes. However, a targeted diet can help stabilise blood sugar levels and effectively prevent the condition. In our blog post, you’ll find out how you can actively combat diabetes with simple dietary tips and why a healthy lifestyle is so important. Read on to discover how small changes can make a big difference.
How can diabetes specialists help?
Many people with type 2 diabetes are well looked after by their GP. Specialist endocrinology and diabetology mainly come into play when:
- the diagnosis is unclear or a more precise classification is required
- blood sugar levels do not reach target levels despite effective initial management
- a more personalised treatment plan is required (various groups of medication, injection therapies)
- technology such as continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) is being considered
- complications need to be investigated or closely monitored
- or you would like a second opinion and a clear, comprehensive plan
“Our aim is not to achieve perfect laboratory results at any cost,” says KD Dr Gurpreet Anand. “We want to work with you to find a plan that makes medical sense – and remains sustainable in your daily life. In doing so, we work closely with your GP practice, as well as diabetes and nutrition counselling services.”
The aim remains: to manage diabetes effectively, make everyday life easier and prevent complications.
Type 2 diabetes: early detection pays off
Type 2 diabetes can go unnoticed for a long time. Anyone at increased risk should have their blood sugar levels assessed by a doctor, even if they have no symptoms. The same applies to anyone who notices changes such as excessive thirst, frequent urination or persistent tiredness.
If type 2 diabetes or a pre-diabetic condition is detected, the next steps can be planned together and at a leisurely pace – often with more flexibility than would be possible later on.
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