What Are Prediabetic Symptoms?

Understanding Prediabetes

Prediabetes is a condition where blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not high enough to be classified as diabetes. It is a warning sign that you are at risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

Common Symptoms of Prediabetes

Prediabetes often has no clear symptoms, but some people may experience:

• Increased Thirst: Feeling unusually thirsty even after drinking water.
• Frequent Urination: Needing to urinate more often, especially at night.
• Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired or lacking energy.
• Blurred Vision: Experiencing blurry vision that comes and goes.
• Slow Healing: Cuts or sores that take longer to heal than usual.
• Darkened Skin: Patches of dark skin, often on the neck, armpits, or groin (a condition called acanthosis nigricans).

Risk Factors for Prediabetes

Certain factors increase the risk of developing prediabetes, including:

• Being overweight or obese.
• Having a family history of diabetes.
• Being physically inactive.
• Having high blood pressure or high cholesterol.
• Being over the age of 45.
• Having a history of gestational diabetes or giving birth to a baby weighing more than 9 pounds.

What Should You Do?

If you suspect you have prediabetes or are at risk, take the following steps:

• Get Tested: Visit your doctor for a blood sugar test (A1C, fasting glucose, or oral glucose tolerance test).
• Lifestyle Changes:
  • Adopt a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
  • Exercise regularly (aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate activity per week).
  • Lose weight if you are overweight or obese.
• Monitor Your Health: Keep track of your blood sugar levels and overall health.

Can Prediabetes Be Reversed?

Yes! With lifestyle changes and proper management, many people can reverse prediabetes and prevent it from progressing to type 2 diabetes.