Prediabetes: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention

What is Prediabetes?

Prediabetes means your blood sugar is higher than normal, but not high enough for diabetes. Many people have prediabetes and do not know it. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says over 1 in 3 adults in the United States have prediabetes. If you have prediabetes, you are at a higher risk for type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. However, early action can help prevent these problems.

Symptoms of Prediabetes

Often, prediabetes has no clear symptoms. Because of this, many people do not realize they have it. Still, some early signs of prediabetes may appear. For example, you might notice:

Increased thirst

Frequent urination

Feeling more tired than usual

Blurred vision

Slow-healing cuts or sores

But, these symptoms can be mild or not show up at all. Therefore, regular check-ups are important, especially if you have risk factors.

Causes and Risk Factors

Prediabetes develops when your body cannot use insulin well. Insulin is a hormone that helps control blood sugar. Over time, sugar builds up in your blood. Several things can raise your risk of prediabetes. For instance, you may be at higher risk if you:

Are overweight or obese

Are 45 years or older

Have a family history of type 2 diabetes

Are physically inactive

Have high blood pressure or high cholesterol

Had diabetes during pregnancy (gestational diabetes)

Belong to certain ethnic groups, such as African American, Hispanic, Asian American, or Native American

Because these factors can add up, it is important to know your personal risk.

How Prediabetes is Diagnosed

Doctors use blood tests to check for prediabetes. Common tests include:

Fasting blood sugar test: Measures blood sugar after you have not eaten for at least 8 hours.

A1C test: Shows your average blood sugar over the past 2-3 months.

Oral glucose tolerance test: Measures blood sugar before and after you drink a sweet liquid.

If your results are higher than normal but not in the diabetes range, you may have prediabetes. Your doctor will explain your results and what they mean for you.

Treatment and Management Options

Prediabetes treatment options focus on lowering your blood sugar. Most people can manage prediabetes with healthy changes. Sometimes, doctors may suggest medicine if your risk is very high. Common ways to treat prediabetes include:

Eating a balanced diet with more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains

Getting at least 150 minutes of physical activity each week

Losing even a small amount of weight, if needed

Quitting smoking

Managing stress

Taking medicine if your doctor recommends it

Because everyone is different, your doctor will help you choose the best plan.

Lifestyle Changes and Prevention Tips

Making healthy choices can help prevent prediabetes or stop it from getting worse. Here are some tips to lower your risk:

Choose water or unsweetened drinks instead of sugary drinks

Eat smaller portions and avoid skipping meals

Include fiber-rich foods like beans and whole grains

Stay active by walking, biking, or dancing

Get enough sleep each night

Check your blood pressure and cholesterol regularly

If you live in a city or rural area, look for local walking groups or community centers. Many places offer free or low-cost exercise classes. In addition, some regions have support groups for people at risk of diabetes.

When to See a Doctor

If you notice early signs of prediabetes or have risk factors, talk to your doctor. Early testing can help you take control of your health. Also, if you have questions about prediabetes diagnosis or treatment options, your healthcare provider can guide you. Remember, regular check-ups are key to staying healthy.

In summary, prediabetes is a warning sign, but you can take steps to prevent type 2 diabetes. Consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice on prediabetes.