What is Prediabetes?
Prediabetes means your blood sugar is higher than normal, but not high enough for diabetes. Many people do not know they have prediabetes. However, early action can help prevent type 2 diabetes. According to the CDC, prediabetes affects millions of adults. Because it often has no clear symptoms, regular checkups are important. If you learn about your prediabetes risk factors, you can take steps to protect your health.
Common Symptoms and Warning Signs
Most people with prediabetes do not notice any symptoms. Still, some early signs of prediabetes may appear. For example, you might feel more thirsty than usual. You could also need to urinate more often. Sometimes, you may feel more tired than normal. In rare cases, dark patches of skin may show up, especially on the neck or underarms. Even if you feel fine, it is wise to ask your doctor about your blood sugar if you have risk factors.
Major Risk Factors for Prediabetes
Several things can raise your chance of developing prediabetes. Knowing these prediabetes risk factors helps you stay alert. For instance, you are more likely to get prediabetes if you:
Because these risks add up, it is important to talk with your doctor if any apply to you.
How Prediabetes is Diagnosed
Doctors use simple blood tests to check for prediabetes. For example, the fasting blood sugar test measures your blood sugar after you have not eaten for at least eight hours. Another test, called the A1C test, shows your average blood sugar over the past three months. Sometimes, a doctor may order an oral glucose tolerance test. This test checks how your body handles sugar after you drink a sweet liquid. If your results are higher than normal but not in the diabetes range, you have prediabetes.
Evidence-Based Treatment and Lifestyle Changes
Although there is no medicine to cure prediabetes, healthy changes can make a big difference. In fact, lifestyle changes for prediabetes are the best way to lower your risk. For example, you can:
Because these steps are proven by research, many doctors recommend them for everyone with prediabetes.
Tips for Prevention and Reducing Your Risk
Even if you do not have prediabetes, you can take steps to prevent it. For instance, try to stay at a healthy weight. You can also choose water instead of sugary drinks. In addition, eating smaller portions may help control your blood sugar. Regular checkups are important, especially if you have risk factors. If you are unsure where to start, consult Dr. Biswarup Deb about a plan for how to prevent prediabetes. Small changes can lead to big results over time.