Understanding Prediabetes: Causes, Symptoms, and Diagnosis

What is Prediabetes?

Prediabetes means your blood sugar is higher than normal, but not high enough for diabetes. Many people have prediabetes and do not know it. In fact, the CDC says over one in three adults in the United States have prediabetes. However, early action can help prevent type 2 diabetes. Prediabetes often has no clear symptoms, so regular check-ups are important. Understanding the early signs of prediabetes can help you take control of your health.

Early Signs and Symptoms

Most people with prediabetes do not notice any symptoms. Still, some early signs may appear. For example, you may feel more thirsty or tired than usual. It is important to watch for these changes. Early signs of prediabetes can include:

Increased thirst

Frequent urination

Feeling very hungry

Unexplained weight loss

Fatigue or feeling tired

Blurred vision

Slow-healing cuts or sores

Even if you do not have symptoms, you may still have prediabetes. Therefore, regular screening is key, especially if you have risk factors.

Common Causes and Risk Factors

Several factors can increase your risk for prediabetes. Some you can control, while others you cannot. Knowing these can help you make healthy choices. Common causes and risk factors include:

Being overweight or obese

Lack of physical activity

Family history of diabetes

Age 45 or older

High blood pressure

Unhealthy cholesterol levels

History of gestational diabetes (diabetes during pregnancy)

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

Belonging to certain ethnic groups (such as African American, Hispanic, Native American, or Asian American)

While you cannot change your age or family history, you can focus on healthy habits to lower your risk.

How Prediabetes is Diagnosed

Doctors use simple blood tests to diagnose prediabetes. These tests measure your blood sugar levels. Common tests include:

Fasting Plasma Glucose (FPG): Measures blood sugar after not eating for at least 8 hours.

Hemoglobin A1C: Shows your average blood sugar over the past 2–3 months.

Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT): Measures blood sugar before and after drinking a sweet drink.

If your results are higher than normal but not in the diabetes range, you may have prediabetes. Your doctor will explain what your numbers mean and what steps to take next.

Treatment and Lifestyle Changes

Prediabetes can often be managed with healthy lifestyle changes. In many cases, you can even reverse it. Doctors may suggest:

Eating a balanced diet with more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains

Getting at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise each week

Losing 5–7% of your body weight if you are overweight

Quitting smoking

Managing stress

Taking medicine if your doctor recommends it

Even small changes can make a big difference. For example, walking daily or choosing water over sugary drinks helps lower your risk.

Prevention Tips

Preventing prediabetes is possible with simple steps. Here are some prediabetes prevention tips:

Stay active by moving more each day

Choose healthy foods and watch portion sizes

Limit sugary drinks and snacks

Keep a healthy weight

Get enough sleep each night

Check your blood sugar if you have risk factors

Because prediabetes often has no symptoms, regular check-ups are important. Early action can help you avoid type 2 diabetes.

When to See a Doctor

If you notice early signs of prediabetes or have risk factors, talk to your doctor. For example, if you feel tired often or have increased thirst, it is wise to get tested. Also, if you have a family history of diabetes, regular screening is important. Your doctor can guide you on the best steps for your health.

Conclusion

Prediabetes is a warning sign, but you can take action. With healthy habits and regular check-ups, you can lower your risk. Consult a healthcare specialist for personalized advice on prediabetes.