Prediabetes refers to a person’s blood sugar level being higher than normal. It can potentially cause skin to become darker in certain parts of the body, such as the neck, armpits, and groin; however, in most cases, it does not cause any identifiable signs or symptoms.
Prediabetes occurs when your body can no longer process glucose properly, causing it to accumulate in your bloodstream. This can happen as a result of the pancreas’ inability to produce sufficient amounts of insulin, or because your cells have developed a resistance to insulin.
A variety of factors can increase your likelihood of developing prediabetes and, by extension, type 2 diabetes. They include:
- Family history
- Black, Hispanic, Native American, or Asian background
- Being over 35 years of age
- Lack of physical activity
- Being overweight or obese
- Consuming a diet high in red or processed meat and sugary drinks
- Smoking
Additionally, several conditions can also increase your risk of developing prediabetes or type 2 diabetes, such as:
- Gestational diabetes (diabetes during pregnancy)
- Polycystic ovary syndrome
- Sleep apnea
- High blood pressure
- High triglyceride levels
- Low levels of high-density lipoprotein (“good”) cholesterol
- High blood sugar levels
- Metabolic syndrome
You may still be able to avoid developing type 2 diabetes if you have prediabetes. The most beneficial steps you can take to prevent this progression include:
- Developing a regular exercise routine
- Improving your diet by replacing unhealthy foods with more nutritious options
- Quitting or avoiding smoking
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Working with a doctor to monitor your health and control potential risk factors such as high blood pressure
If you are at risk for prediabetes, you can schedule an appointment for diagnosis and treatment from a board-certified doctor at Flushing Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center by calling (718) 670-5486.
All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.