What is Pre-Diabetes?

Pre-Diabetes Symptoms

Pre-Diabetes is an early warning sign for the development of type 2 diabetes. Previously it was referred to as impaired fasting glucose (IFG) or impaired glucose tolerance (IGT), depending on the test used to diagnose it and shows up as higher than normal blood glucose levels.

People with pre-diabetes often show no symptoms until the onset of type 2 diabetes when an unusual thirst, a frequent desire to urinate, blurred vision, or a feeling of being tired most of the time are the first signs.
Figures suggest that over 57 million people in the United States have pre-diabetes and that this condition may already be causing long-term damage to the body, especially the heart and circulatory system.

The development of type2 diabetes is not inevitable if you are diagnosed with prediabetes as dietary change and increased levels of exercise can, in reverse the process in many cases. The main problem is that lack of symptoms and therefore those people most at risk, including African Americans, Latinos, Native Americans, Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders, as well as the aged population, should go for regular testing.

Testing For Pre Diabetes

The two different tests your doctor can use to determine whether you have pre-diabetes are FPG (fasting plasma glucose test) or OGTT (oral glucose tolerance test). The blood glucose levels measured after these tests determine whether your metabolism is normal, or whether you have pre-diabetes or diabetes.

In the FPG test, the normal fasting blood glucose is below 100 mg/dl. A person with pre-diabetes has a fasting blood glucose level between 100 and 125 mg/dl. If the blood glucose level rises to 126 mg/dl or above, a person has diabetes.

If the OGT test is taken, a person’s blood glucose is measured after a fast and 2 hours after taking a high glucose drink. Normal blood glucose is below 140 mg/dl 2 hours after the drink. In pre-diabetes, the 2-hour blood glucose is 140 to 199 mg/dl. If the 2-hour blood glucose rises to 200 mg/dl or above, a person has diabetes.

Preventing and Reversing Pre-Diabetes

Medications are available that can help combat the problem and delay the onset of type 2 diabetes, but there is so much more than can be done. Obesity plays a significant role and by adopting a healthier, high fiber, low glycemic index diet and incorporating a little exercise into your day it’s possible to reverse the condition. A recent study showed a 58% reduction in diabetes for a mere 5%-10% reduction in body weight.

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Other Medical Complications

If you are diagnosed with pre-diabetes, your risk of developing heart disease or stroke increases by 50%. This increases further with continued tobacco use or you have high blood pressure and high cholesterol.

Related Health Articles

• What is Hyperglycemia? - Hyperglycemia is a condition where blood sugar levels are too high and may indicate the presence or a risk of type 2 diabetes.
• Type 2 Diabetes - Type 2 diabetes is on the increase, and the link to poor diet has been established. Reduce your own risk now by seeking sensible dietary advice.
• UK Diabetes Deaths Figure Reaches 10% - Figures released in the UK show that diabetes is now responsible for more than 10% of all adult deaths. This alarming figure is likely to rise with no end in sight, largely due to dietary issues, ignorance of the facts and the problem of self-denial.
• Prevent Diabetic Ills With Chamomile Tea? - When you sit down for a meal today, consider drinking a cup or two of chamomile tea, especially if you have diabetes. A new study shows the tea may help prevent the development of diabetic complications, such as loss of vision, nerve damage, and kidney damage.