Prediabetes is a precursor to diabetes meaning that your blood sugar is slightly elevated but is not as high as someone with diabetes. Though it’s not alarming at this stage, if left undetected or unmanaged, it can end up crossing into diabetes sooner than you think. Therefore, it’s necessary to know the signs of prediabetes and make lifestyle changes to ensure that you manage the disease and prevent it from getting worse. Here are some signs of prediabetes you should know about.
Blurry Vision
Most people who suffer from diabetes complain of blurry vision. This is also a common symptom for people with prediabetes since high glucose levels cloud the lens of your eye causing impaired vision. This is a different kind of blurriness compared to other eyesight problems. First, it comes on suddenly and then becomes worse over time. Second, the level of blurriness can come and go anytime your blood sugar level fluctuates. In some cases, it’s a temporary condition that goes away once you start regulating your glucose level. If you experience blurry vision, visit an eye doctor for tests and treatment. Eye Problems You Should Not Ignore
Fatigue
Chronic fatigue is something you should be wary of since it might indicate you’re suffering from prediabetes. Cells depend on glucose extracted from the blood for energy. Without energy, they will not be able to function properly which means there’s less oxygen supply to the brain. Additionally, when your body is ailing the brain responds by going into rest mode so that you can recover. This may make you feel lethargic throughout the day.
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Frequent Thirst & Urination
Prediabetes affects the kidneys dues to the high blood sugar levels in the blood. This makes the kidneys filter more water from the blood and deliver it to the bladder which in turn makes you urinate more often. This symptom is milder as opposed to when you have diabetes. According to doctors, after full-blown diabetes occurs, the filtering mechanism of the kidney goes from bad to worse causing more water to be lost as urine. Also, drinking water constantly leads to frequent urination. Signs And Symptoms Of Kidney Disease Or Issues
Slower Healing Time
High blood sugar can damage the lining of small blood vessels over time. This makes it difficult for wounds, even minor ones, to heal. Such a condition can be dangerous since wounds are prone to infection and if they don’t heal in time, you’re at a higher risk of getting an infection. This is why it’s important to manage prediabetes to avoid further damage to your health.
Weight Gain/Weight Loss
People suffering from prediabetes have to manage their weight so that they can stay healthy. Unfortunately, one of the symptoms of prediabetes is constant hunger. This is because insulin resistance signals you to eat more which leads to more sugar being stored as fat. On the other hand, some people experience weight loss. This might be because the cells are not getting enough energy so they used stored fat as a source of energy.
Numbness
A tingling sensation in your limbs is no small matter especially if it’s frequent. Having high blood sugar levels puts you at risk for nerve damage and that can cause numbness or tingle in your hands, feet, and arms. You shouldn’t ignore this symptom and seek help as soon as you suspect something might be wrong. Early treatment of symptoms can save you from complications and consequences that arise the more you wait.
Skin Problems
Skin problems such as discolouration are one of the symptoms associated with prediabetes. This is usually a sign that your blood sugar is high. You can also get a wide range of other skin problems such as yellow or brown patches, thickened skin, blisters, skin infections, and small bumps which can help you determine whether you’re suffering from pre-diabetes. Keep a lookout for any skin symptoms and bring your concerns to your doctor.
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