Prediabetes: How to Detect It Early and Reverse It
Most people think diabetes happens suddenly, but in reality, it often starts with a silent stage called prediabetes. This is when your blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not yet high enough to be called diabetes. The good news? Prediabetes can be reversed, if you detect it early and take the right steps.
In Pune, many people remain unaware they have prediabetes until it turns into full diabetes. Dr. Priyanka Masal, an experienced Diabetes Specialist, explains how to spot the warning signs and prevent long-term health problems.
What is Prediabetes?
Prediabetes means your body is starting to lose control of blood sugar levels.
⦁ Fasting blood sugar: 100–125 mg/dL
⦁ HbA1c level: 5.7%–6.4%
If you fall into this range, you are at high risk for type 2 diabetes.
Early Signs of Prediabetes
Prediabetes usually doesn’t cause obvious symptoms, but some subtle signs may include:
⦁ Feeling more tired than usual
⦁ Increased thirst
⦁ Frequent urination
⦁ Unexplained weight gain, especially around the belly
⦁ Dark patches of skin (neck, armpits)
Who Is at Risk?
You are more likely to develop prediabetes if you:
⦁ Have a family history of diabetes
⦁ Are overweight or obese
⦁ Lead a sedentary lifestyle
⦁ Are over the age of 35
⦁ Have high blood pressure or high cholesterol
⦁ Had gestational diabetes during pregnancy
How to Detect Prediabetes Early
Dr. Priyanka Masal recommends routine health check-ups—especially if you have any risk factors. Key tests include:
⦁ Fasting Blood Sugar Test
⦁ Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT)
⦁ HbA1c Test
Can Prediabetes Be Reversed?
Yes. With the right changes, you can bring your blood sugar back to a healthy range.
⦁ Eat a balanced diet with more vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins
⦁ Exercise regularly (at least 30 minutes a day, 5 times a week)
⦁ Maintain a healthy weight
⦁ Get enough sleep
⦁ Manage stress through yoga, meditation, or breathing exercises
Why Early Action Matters
If you ignore prediabetes, your risk of developing type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and nerve damage increases. But if you act early, you can completely avoid these complications.
Bottom Line:
Prediabetes is a warning sign you should never ignore. With regular check-ups, healthy lifestyle changes, and expert guidance from a qualified diabetes specialist like Dr. Priyanka Masal, you can reverse it and protect your health for years to come.
Fact:
Short-distance travel is usually safe during early and mid-pregnancy if approved by your doctor. Long trips or risky modes of transport should be avoided, especially in the third trimester.