Prediabetes values
When the doctor talks to you about prediabetes it means that your blood glucose levels are higher than normal, but not high enough to diagnose the existence of diabetes. That is, we are facing an early stage in the hyperglycemia / diabetes continuum.
For diagnosis, blood glucose analysis is carried out, and since it does not produce symptoms, it is essential and important that regularly (at least once a year if there is no other medical problem) you perform a routine blood test, since it is the only way to know if there would be prediabetes or diabetes.
Considering the existing risk factors (such as age over 45 years, excess weight, family history, little physical activity, gestational diabetes in pregnancy and follow-up of unhealthy diet), may be indicative of possible existence of prediabetes, but The truth is that the blood test first and then the glucose tolerance test, are the most effective tests for diagnosis.
What are the levels that indicate prediabetes?
Fundamentally, there are two values that we must attend, depending on the type of test that is carried out:
- Analysis or examination of fasting glucose: there is prediabetes if these levels are between 100 and 125 mg / dl. It is an exam that is done on an empty stomach, at least 8 hours after the last meal.
- Glucose tolerance test: there is prediabetes if the blood glucose levels are between 140 and 200 mg / dl. It is a test consisting of taking a liquid or drink with high glucose content, then two hours later, perform another blood test to know what capacity the body presents for processing.
Considering the normal values of glucose, it is between 70 and 105 mg / dl in young people and adults, and in children between 40 to 100 mg / dl.
Should I be alarmed if I have high glucose? Does it indicate that I have prediabetes?
If a high blood glucose appears in a routine blood test you do not have to worry at first, since there are certain conditions that can influence that it appears momentarily high, and not mean that you suffer from prediabetes or diabetes.
For example, it is known that emotional stress can influence the increase in glucose levels, to later stabilize when a few days or weeks pass. On the other hand, it may also happen that you have not respected the 8 hours after the last meal to perform the test (for example, that you will have dinner at 12 o'clock at night and have the analysis at 7 a.m. the next day ). Or that you even get distracted and instead of drinking water before the test take a glass of juice or eat something.
Therefore, in the presence of high glucose values it is normal for your doctor to do them again, in a period ranging from several weeks to 3 months.
Image | Iqbal Osman This article is published for informational purposes only. It can not and should not replace the consultation with a Physician. We advise you to consult your Trusted Doctor. ThemesDiabetes
