Prediabetes? How Close Are You to Developing Diabetes?

What do you mean by Prediabetes

Prediabetes is a condition in which blood sugar levels are higher than usual but not high enough to be diagnosed as type 2 diabetes. It serves as a warning sign that an individual is at a greater risk of developing diabetes if proper measures are not taken. Prediabetes often occurs when the body becomes resistant to the hormone insulin or when the pancreas doesn’t produce enough insulin to regulate blood sugar effectively. While prediabetes itself may not exhibit noticeable symptoms, if left untreated, it can progress into type 2 diabetes and lead to serious health complications.

How common is Prediabetes?

Prediabetes accounts for more than one in three adults. What’s even more concerning is that a majority of individuals with prediabetes are unaware of their condition as it often presents no noticeable symptoms. The prevalence of prediabetes tends to increase with age and is more common among overweight or obese individuals. That’s why it is more important for an individual to detect it early for better management.

Who’s at higher risk of Prediabetes?

• Overweight or Obesity: People with a body mass index (BMI) of 25 or higher are more likely to develop the condition.

• Sedentary Lifestyle: Leading a sedentary lifestyle with minimal exercise or physical movement can contribute to insulin resistance.

• Family History: Having a close family member, such as a parent or sibling, with diabetes increases the likelihood of developing prediabetes.

• Age: With age the risk of developing insulin resistance and prediabetes tends to rise.

• Gestational Diabetes: Women who have experienced gestational diabetes during pregnancy are at higher risk of developing prediabetes and type 2 diabetes later in life.

• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): Women with PCOS, a hormonal disorder, have an increased risk of developing prediabetes due to insulin resistance.

Complications associated with Prediabetes?

• Type 2 Diabetes: Without any medical intervention, prediabetes can progress to type 2 diabetes.
• Cardiovascular Disease: Prediabetes is linked to an elevated risk of cardiovascular conditions, such as heart disease and stroke.
• Kidney Damage
• Nerve Damage: Uncontrolled prediabetes can result in nerve damage, known as diabetic neuropathy.
• Eye Problems: Prediabetes increases the risk of developing eye-related complications, including diabetic retinopathy, cataracts, and glaucoma.
• Sleep Apnea: Individuals with prediabetes are more likely to develop sleep apnea, a condition characterized by interrupted breathing during sleep.

Symptoms of Prediabetes?

Prediabetes often does not exhibit noticeable symptoms, which is why it is often referred to as a “silent” condition.

• Feeling more thirsty than usual and needing to drink larger amounts of fluids.
• Having to urinate more frequently, especially during the night.
• Feeling lethargic and lack of energy even after getting adequate rest.
• Experiencing blurred vision or changes in vision clarity.
• Wounds or cuts taking longer to heal than usual.

It’s important to note that these symptoms can be quite mild. Therefore, regular check-ups are crucial for detecting prediabetes in its early stages.

How to manage Prediabetes?

• Eat a Balanced Diet full of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats
• Control the Portion Sizes
• Engage in regular physical activity
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Drink enough water and limit sugary beverages.
• Monitor blood sugar levels regularly
• Manage stress
• Quit smoking

The progression from prediabetes to type 2 diabetes is not uniform for everyone. It varies from individual to individual and depends on various factors, including lifestyle choices and genetic predisposition. So, it is important to keep an eye on your blood sugar level and go for regular health checkups.

“Prevention is better than Cure”

Accord Hospital, Faridabad, is renowned for providing exceptional care and treatment for patients with diabetes. With a team of highly skilled and experienced doctors, Accord Hospital offers comprehensive medical services for individuals dealing with diabetes. The hospital specializes in diagnosing and managing diabetes, focusing on early detection and prevention. The dedicated team of physicians, known for their expertise in the field, ensures personalized care and tailored treatment plans for each patient. Whether you are experiencing symptoms of diabetes or seeking the best doctor for diabetic patients, Accord Hospital, Faridabad is committed to delivering top-notch medical care in the Delhi NCR region.