Prediabetes is also known as borderline diabetes or impaired glucose tolerance, a condition that develops before someone receives a diagnosis of Type 2 Diabetes. It occurs when there is a glucose intolerance, meaning your blood sugars are at a higher level than normal, but not enough to be put in the diabetes diagnosis category.
Fortunately, during the prediabetes phase the pancreas still produces insulin, but your blood sugar still remains too high, because the insulin doesn’t remove the sugar out of your bloodstream. This is a condition called insulin resistance, and requires a visit to your family medicine provider.
Someone who has prediabetes may not even know that they have it, as symptoms are not always present, and if they are, they can be mistaken or misdiagnosed for another condition. It is often the case where someone who struggles with insulin resistance may develop type 2 diabetes, if not treated properly. That’s why going to see your provider to get tested is important, especially if some common symptoms are present. Symptoms of prediabetes include:
- Obesity
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Having a family history of diabetes
- Lack of exercise
- Blurry vision
- Increased thirst
- Tiredness/fatigue
- Cuts that won’t heal
- Inflammation in your gums
As mentioned before, prediabetes is a silent condition, so getting a checkup is important in early detection and diagnosis. If left untreated, other systems in your body will be affected. If there is concern, your provider will perform the following tests, to see if the insulin in your body is doing what it should. These tests include:
1. A fasting blood glucose test: This test measures your blood sugar before you eat, and after you drink something sugary.
2. A1c (HbA1c) test (Hemoglobin)
3. Oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT)
Being on a proper diet plan and exercise regimen will help you reduce your risk of developing type 2 diabetes. To learn more about prediabetes, call Advanced Medical in Wellington and Royal Palm Beach, at (561) 434-1935 to request an appointment, or request one online.
