Early Signs of Prediabetes You Shouldn’t Ignore

Prediabetes is often called the “silent stage of diabetes” because it develops without obvious symptoms. In the UAE, diabetes is a growing health concern, and early detection of prediabetes can prevent progression to type 2 diabetes. By understanding the early warning signs, you can take proactive steps to manage your blood sugar levels and protect long-term health.

This guide will explore the most common signs of prediabetes, risk factors, and effective preventive measures.

What is Prediabetes?

Prediabetes occurs when your blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not yet high enough to be classified as type 2 diabetes. It is usually caused by insulin resistance, where your body struggles to use insulin effectively.

Without lifestyle changes, prediabetes can develop into type 2 diabetes, increasing the risk of heart disease, kidney problems, and vision issues. Early recognition and intervention are key.

Early Signs of Prediabetes

1. Excessive Thirst and Frequent Urination

High blood sugar can make your kidneys work harder to remove excess glucose, leading to dehydration, frequent urination, and persistent thirst.

2. Persistent Fatigue

If your cells cannot absorb glucose effectively, your body lacks energy, resulting in constant tiredness, even after sufficient rest.

3. Blurred Vision

Fluctuating blood sugar levels can affect the fluid balance in your eyes, causing temporary blurred vision.

4. Slow-Healing Wounds

Elevated blood sugar weakens circulation and immune response, making cuts and bruises heal more slowly than usual.

5. Unexplained Weight Changes

Sudden weight gain, especially around the abdomen, or unexpected weight loss can indicate early insulin resistance.

6. Darkened Skin Patches

A condition called acanthosis nigricans leads to velvety dark patches on the neck, elbows, or armpits and is linked to insulin resistance.

Risk Factors for Prediabetes

Even without obvious symptoms, certain factors increase your likelihood of prediabetes:

• Family history of type 2 diabetes
• Being overweight or obese
• Sedentary lifestyle
• High blood pressure or cholesterol
• Gestational diabetes during pregnancy

Why Early Detection Matters

Recognizing prediabetes early allows you to:

• Prevent progression to type 2 diabetes
• Maintain healthy blood sugar levels
• Reduce the risk of heart disease and other complications
• Access preventive care like screening packages and lifestyle guidance

How to Take Action

If you notice any symptoms or have risk factors:

1. Get tested: Simple blood sugar tests or HbA1c can confirm prediabetes.
2. Adopt lifestyle changes: Healthy diet, regular exercise, and weight management are proven to reverse prediabetes.
3. Book preventive health packages: myAster offers the Diabetic Basic Package, which can be easily booked via the myAster website or app for comprehensive screening.

Conclusion

Prediabetes is a warning, not a life sentence. Early recognition, preventive care, and lifestyle modifications can reverse insulin resistance and prevent diabetes.

Take charge of your health today – book your diabetes screening with myAster and start your journey toward better blood sugar control.