Prediabetes

Overview

About 1 in 3 U.S. adults has prediabetes, and most don't know.

Without changes, many develop type 2 diabetes.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Usually no symptoms

Less common

• Dark, velvety skin in body folds

When to get medical care

Causes

Insulin resistance.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.
• It can run in families. Tell your doctor if a parent, brother, or sister has it.

Who is more likely to get it

• Overweight
• Family history
• Inactivity

Possible complications

• Diabetes

Diagnosis

Blood tests find it.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• A1C: Average sugar over 3 months.
• Fasting glucose:

Treatment

Small changes make a big difference.

Self-care

• Lose 5 to 7 percent of your weight
• Get 150 minutes of activity a week
• Cut sugary drinks
• Join a CDC-recognized lifestyle program

Medicines

Medicines that may help:

OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.

Prevention

To prevent diabetes:

• Stay active
• Healthy weight

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to an endocrinologist (hormone doctor).

Living with it

• Check your blood sugar as your care team advises.
• Check your feet every day for cuts or sores.
• Wear a medical ID and carry a fast sugar, like glucose tabs.
• Get a yearly eye exam and kidney test.
• Long-term illness can affect mood. Tell your doctor if you feel down or anxious.

Support groups and helplines

• American Diabetes Association: Help line 1-800-342-2383, education, and local programs.

Back to school, work, or sports

• Most people can keep working or going to school.
• Ask about changes that help, like extra breaks or a flexible schedule. Workers may be covered by the ADA. Students may get a 504 plan.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• This condition needs closer checkups during pregnancy. Plan ahead with your doctor.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

For caregivers

• Go to visits when you can and take notes.
• Keep a list of medicines, allergies, and doctors in one place.
• Learn the warning signs that need fast care.
• Take breaks and ask for help. Caregivers need care too.

Outlook

Often reversible.

Myths and facts

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

Questions to ask

• How often should I be tested?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Prediabetes