pre-diabetes

Pre-diabetes is a condition where blood glucose levels are higher than normal but not yet high enough to be diagnosed as diabetes. This condition is a warning that a person is at high risk for developing type 2 diabetes. In fact, some studies have shown that most people who have pre-diabetes will develop type 2 diabetes within 10 years. Pre-diabetes is a serious health threat.

 

Glucose is the main form of sugar found in the body and is a key source of energy for the body. In most people, an organ called the pancreas makes insulin to help control blood glucose levels in the body. Some people, however, become resistant to the effects of insulin. As a result, glucose builds up in the body. Recent research shows that these higher-than-normal levels of glucose in the blood can cause long-term damage to the body, most notably, the heart.

 

People with pre-diabetes often have no symptoms. In fact, many people have diabetes or pre-diabetes without knowing so. Symptoms, if any, develop so gradually that people often do not recognize them. An elevated blood glucose level is the only sign of pre-diabetes.

 

The causes of diabetes and pre-diabetes are not completely understood. Experts agree that certain risk factors predispose an individual to type 2 diabetes and pre-diabetes. Obesity, lack of physical exercise, and age are three of the strongest risk factors.

A person at risk for pre-diabetes can delay, and possibly even prevent, the onset of illness simply by making the following changes: modest exercise losing weight, if overweight

There are two different tests that doctors use to screen for pre-diabetes. Either one is acceptable. Fasting plasma glucose test, also called FPG. With this test, the blood glucose level is measured when the person has had no food or drink for at least 8 hours. If the blood glucose level is 100 to 125 mg/dL, the person has pre-diabetes. Levels of 126 dL or higher, on two or more occasions, indicate type 2 diabetes.Oral glucose tolerance test, also called OGTT. With this test, a person's blood glucose level is measured after a fast and 2 hours after drinking a special glucose drink. If the 2-hour blood glucose level is 140 to 199 mg/dL, the person has pre-diabetes. Levels at 200 mg/dL or higher indicate type 2 diabetes.