Prediabetes

Updated: 2023-03-07

Overview

Prediabetes is a condition that can lead to type 2 diabetes. But healthy-lifestyle changes may keep that from happening. The cause of prediabetes isn't clear. Risk factors include being overweight, eating an unhealthy diet and getting little to no exercise. Having a family member with type 2 diabetes also can raise the risk of prediabetes.

Symptoms

Most often, prediabetes doesn't have any symptoms. But it may cause skin to darken on the neck, armpits or groin. Some symptoms may be clues that prediabetes has become type 2 diabetes. These symptoms include more thirst and hunger, frequent urination, tiredness, blurred vision, and numb or tingling hands or feet.

Treatments

With prediabetes, lifestyle changes may help prevent type 2 diabetes. Eat a balanced diet that includes fruits, vegetables, nuts, whole grains and olive oil. Get aerobic exercise, such as walking or swimming. Lose extra weight. And don't smoke. In some cases, a health care provider also may recommend medicine to lower blood sugar.