Prediabetes is a condition that signals the possible onset of diabetes. Diabetes meanwhile is a metabolic condition that can be split into two types: type one and type two. Both these forms are characterized by changes in the way that the body can utilize insulin and therefore glucose.
Insulin is the substance that the body produces in response to large amounts of glucose. When this happens, it triggers the absorption of that sugar from the bloodstream and allows it to be used by the cells to produce energy.
In type 1 diabetes, which is largely genetic, the body stops producing enough insulin and therefore glucose is allowed to build up in the system and run amok. In type 2 diabetes, the body stops being sensitive to glucose, and thus it isn’t able to use it in the same way. In both scenarios, the system, therefore, begins to try and expel the excess sugar, which causes damage in the body. It also struggles with low energy.
Prior to type 2 diabetes, patients might start to notice early warning signs that their insulin sensitivity is waning. This is called ‘pre-diabetes’ and is a warning sign that they need to change their diet or employ other interventions to prevent diabetes.
In this post, we will take a look at the 13 early signs and symptoms to look out for.
Note
As it happens, there are very few signs of prediabetes, and the condition is largely considered asymptomatic. For that reason, we will be dividing this post into multiple sections. First, we will look at symptoms unique to prediabetes (which are very limited). Then we will look at very early signs of diabetes itself, some of which might also appear at the latter end of prediabetes. Finally, we will look at risk factors.
Signs of Prediabetes
1. Dark Patches on the Skin
The first sign of pre-diabetes and really the only sign is that you may notice dark patches appearing on the skin. What happens here is that sugar builds up in the blood and causes discoloration to certain areas around the body. Now, this symptom doesn’t appear in every case of diabetes and it’s also very mild and easy to miss.
However, you should always be vigilant when it comes to changes in skin tone. If you think you noticed a change in the color of your skin, then be sure to visit the doctor and get it checked out – as it could be a sign of many different things.
