(By Dr. Manisha Arora, Director, Internal Medicine, CK Birla Hospital®, Delhi)
Prediabetes is a disease that often goes unnoticed because it does not usually present with obvious symptoms. It is a biochemical finding in which blood sugar levels are higher than normal, but not yet high enough to be classified as type 2 diabetes. Prediabetes is a critical stage because it indicates that the body is beginning to lose control over blood sugar regulation and, if left unchecked, can progress to full-blown diabetes. However, the good news is that prediabetes is reversible with the right lifestyle changes. Recognizing the signs and understanding the risks associated with prediabetes can help prevent the onset of type 2 diabetes.
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What is prediabetes?
To understand prediabetes, it’s crucial to know how blood sugar levels are measured. A fasting blood sugar level of less than 100 mg/dL is considered normal. If the fasting blood sugar level is between 100 and 125 mg/dL, the person is classified as prediabetic. When it reaches 126 mg/dL or higher, the person is diagnosed with type 2 diabetes.
Prediabetes is a middle ground. It is a warning sign that the body is having difficulty regulating blood sugar levels effectively and, without intervention, can progress to diabetes. The most worrying aspect of prediabetes is that it often occurs without any symptoms. Many people may have prediabetes and not know it, so regular screening and blood tests are critical, especially if a person has risk factors such as obesity, a sedentary lifestyle or a family history of diabetes.
Signs and symptoms:
While prediabetes is often asymptomatic, some people may experience subtle signs that suggest elevated blood sugar levels. However, these symptoms are often associated with advanced diabetes and may indicate that prediabetes has progressed:
- Frequent urination (polyuria): One of the first signs that blood sugar levels may be too high is an increased need to urinate. This happens because excess glucose in the blood forces the kidneys to work harder to filter and absorb it. When the kidneys can’t keep up, the excess glucose is excreted in the urine, causing more frequent urination.
- Increased thirst (polydipsia): In addition to frequent urination, a person may experience unusual thirst. This is the body’s way of trying to replenish fluids lost through excessive urination.
- Increased hunger (Polyphagia): High blood sugar levels can also lead to increased hunger. Even after eating, a person may soon feel hungry again because the body’s cells are not efficiently absorbing the glucose needed for energy.
It is important to note that these symptoms are most often seen in people who have already developed diabetes. In the case of prediabetes, these signs may be absent, which is why the condition is often referred to as “silent.”
Risks of ignoring prediabetes:
Although prediabetes doesn’t always manifest with obvious symptoms, damage to the body can start early. Elevated blood sugar levels, even those that don’t meet the criteria for diabetes, can begin to damage the heart, kidneys, and blood vessels. Over time, this can lead to complications such as cardiovascular disease, kidney damage, and nerve damage. This early damage is why prediabetes should be taken seriously.
The good news: prediabetes is reversible
One of the most important things to understand about prediabetes is that it is a reversible disease. Unlike type 2 diabetes, which is a chronic disease, prediabetes can be managed and even reversed with lifestyle changes. Key factors that contribute to prediabetes are often lifestyle-related, such as obesity, physical inactivity, and an unhealthy diet. By addressing these risk factors, a person can significantly reduce their chances of developing type 2 diabetes.
Taking action:
If a person has been diagnosed with prediabetes or suspects they may be at risk, there are several steps they can take to manage their condition:
- Adopt a healthy diet: Focus on a balanced diet rich in whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and healthy fats. Reducing your intake of sugary foods and refined carbohydrates can help regulate blood sugar levels.
- Increase physical activity: Regular exercise helps your body use insulin more efficiently and lowers blood sugar levels. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous activity per week.
- Controlling weight: If a person is overweight, losing even a small amount of weight can have a significant impact on blood sugar levels.
- Periodic monitoring: Have regular checks of your blood sugar levels with your healthcare provider. Early detection of any changes can help a person make necessary adjustments to their lifestyle.
Prediabetes is a crucial stage in the development of diabetes, but it is also a stage where intervention can make a significant difference.
[Disclaimer: The information provided in the article, including treatment suggestions shared by doctors, is intended for general informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.]
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