What Are the Warning Signs of Prediabetes?

What Is Prediabetes?

Prediabetes is a condition where your blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not high enough to be classified as diabetes. It’s a warning sign that you’re at risk of developing type 2 diabetes if you don’t make lifestyle changes.

Common Warning Signs

Prediabetes often has no obvious symptoms, but some warning signs include:

• Increased thirst
• Frequent urination
• Fatigue or feeling unusually tired
• Blurred vision
• Darkened skin patches (acanthosis nigricans), often on the neck or armpits

Risk Factors for Prediabetes

Certain factors increase your risk of developing prediabetes:

• Being overweight or obese
• Having a sedentary lifestyle
• Family history of diabetes
• Age (45 or older)
• High blood pressure or cholesterol
• History of gestational diabetes or giving birth to a baby over 9 pounds

What Should You Do?

• Get Tested: If you have risk factors or symptoms, ask your doctor for an A1C test, fasting blood sugar test, or oral glucose tolerance test.
• Lifestyle Changes:
  • Eat a balanced diet rich in whole grains, lean proteins, and vegetables.
  • Exercise regularly (aim for at least 150 minutes per week).
  • Lose weight if overweight or obese.
• Monitor Your Health: Keep track of your blood sugar levels and overall health.

Can Prediabetes Be Reversed?

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