(By Dr Manisha Arora, Director - Internal Medicine at the CK Birla Hospital®, Delhi)
Pre-diabetes is a condition that often goes unnoticed because it typically doesn’t present itself with obvious symptoms. It's a biochemical finding where blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not yet elevated enough to be classified as Type 2 diabetes. Pre-diabetes is a critical stage because it indicates that the body is starting to lose control over blood sugar regulation, and if left unchecked, it can progress to full-blown diabetes. However, the good news is that pre-diabetes is reversible with appropriate lifestyle changes. Recognising the signs and understanding the risks associated with pre-diabetes can help prevent the onset of Type 2 diabetes.
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What is Pre-Diabetes?
To understand pre-diabetes, knowing how blood sugar levels are measured is essential. 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, then the person is classified as pre-diabetic. When it reaches 126 mg/dL or higher, a diagnosis of Type 2 diabetes is made.
Pre-diabetes is a middle ground. It's a warning sign that the body is struggling to regulate blood sugar levels effectively, and without intervention, it may progress to diabetes. The most concerning aspect of pre-diabetes is that it often presents without any symptoms. Many individuals may have pre-diabetes and remain unaware of it, which makes regular screening and blood tests crucial, especially if a person has risk factors such as obesity, a sedentary lifestyle, or a family history of diabetes.
Signs And Symptoms:
While pre-diabetes is often asymptomatic, some individuals may experience subtle signs that suggest elevated blood sugar levels. These symptoms, however, are usually associated with full-blown diabetes and may indicate that pre-diabetes has progressed:
- Frequent urination (Polyuria): One of the first signs that the blood sugar levels may be too high is an increased need to urinate. This occurs 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 into the urine, leading to more frequent urination.
- Increased thirst (Polydipsia): Along with frequent urination, a person might feel unusually thirsty. This is the body's way of trying to replenish the fluids lost through excessive urination.
- Increased hunger (Polyphagia): High blood sugar levels can also trigger an increase in hunger. Even after eating, a person may feel hungry again soon because the body's cells aren't efficiently absorbing the glucose needed for energy.
It's important to note that these symptoms are more commonly seen in individuals who have already developed diabetes. In the case of pre-diabetes, these signs may be absent, which is why the condition is often referred to as "silent."
Risks Of Ignoring Pre-Diabetes:
Even though pre-diabetes doesn't always come with noticeable symptoms, the damage to the body can start early. Elevated blood sugar levels, even those that don't meet the criteria for diabetes, can begin to harm 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 pre-diabetes should be taken seriously.
The Good News: Pre-Diabetes Is Reversible
One of the most important things to understand about pre-diabetes is that it is a reversible condition. Unlike Type 2 diabetes, which is a chronic condition, pre-diabetes can be managed and even reversed with lifestyle changes. The key factors that contribute to pre-diabetes are often related to lifestyle, such as obesity, physical inactivity, and an unhealthy diet. By addressing these risk factors, a person can significantly reduce the chances of progressing to Type 2 diabetes.
Taking Action:
If a person has been diagnosed with pre-diabetes or suspects that they might be at risk, there are several steps they can take to manage their condition:
- Adopt a healthy diet: Focus on a balanced diet that is rich in whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Reducing the intake of sugary foods and refined carbohydrates can help regulate blood sugar levels.
- Increase physical activity: Regular exercise helps the 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 each week.
- Manage weight: If a person is overweight, losing even a small amount of weight can have a significant impact on blood sugar levels.
- Regular monitoring: Keep track of the blood sugar levels through regular check-ups with your healthcare provider. Early detection of any changes can help a person make necessary adjustments to their lifestyle.
Pre-diabetes is a crucial stage in the development of diabetes, but it's 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.]