Diabetes is one of the most common health issues that many people go through. It is a condition where one’s blood sugar is higher than normal. The World Health Organization explains that the number of people who have diabetes has increased from 200 million in 1990 to 830 million in 2022. The drastic increase in numbers has been attributed to the increase in the prevalence of processed and sugary foods, lack of movement due to long working hours, etc. While it is a prevalent condition, it needs specific tests to be diagnosed. So, does a person develop diabetes with no prior signs or warnings? There is in fact a warning step before you get diagnosed with diabetes known as prediabetes. Understanding Diabetes and Prediabetes There are also 2 types of diabetes. Type 2 is the most common type, where your pancreas do not make enough insulin to breakdown the blood glucose. In type 1, a person’s pancreas stops working, causing high blood sugar levels. However, before you develop type 2 diabetes, there is a ‘warning stage’ known as prediabetes. Prediabetes, also called non-diabetic hyperglycaemia, means your blood sugar levels are higher than normal, but not high enough to be diagnosed as diabetes. It's a serious concern because it significantly increases your risk of developing type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. Tell-Tales Signs of Prediabetes By recognizing prediabetes and making changes to your daily life, you can significantly lower your risk of developing type 2 diabetes. This includes- Feeling Tired Experiencing unusual tiredness or frequent energy dips could be a subtle clue. When blood sugar levels aren't stable, your body struggles to use energy efficiently, leaving you feeling drained even after rest. This ongoing fatigue is a common early warning. Blurry Vision Occasional or persistent blurry vision might indicate fluctuating blood sugar levels. High sugar can affect the fluid balance in your eyes, causing the lens to swell and change shape, leading to temporary or recurring fuzziness in your sight. Increased Hunger Feeling hungry more often than normal, even after eating, is a symptom known as polyphagia. If your body isn't effectively using glucose for energy, your cells might signal a constant need for more fuel, leading to persistent hunger pangs. Unexplained Weight Loss Losing weight without trying, even when you're eating more, can be a surprising early sign. This happens because your body might not be getting enough energy from glucose, causing it to start burning fat and muscle for fuel instead, leading to unintended weight loss. Darkened Skin Patches You might notice areas of darkened, velvety skin, especially around your neck, armpits, or groin. This condition, called acanthosis nigricans, is a common visual sign of insulin resistance, where your body isn't using insulin effectively. Skin Tags While generally harmless, having an unusual number of small skin growths, or skin tags, can sometimes be linked to higher insulin levels and insulin resistance. They often appear in areas where skin rubs together, like the neck or armpits. Slow-Healing Wounds If your cuts, scrapes, or wounds take an unusually long time to heal, it could be a warning sign. High blood sugar levels can damage nerves and blood vessels, reducing blood flow and the body's ability to repair itself efficiently. Increased Thirst and Frequent Urination Feeling unusually thirsty all the time and needing to urinate much more often, especially at night, are classic signs. When blood sugar is too high, your kidneys work overtime to filter out the excess sugar, pulling more water from your body and making you thirsty. Getting Diagnosed and Checked The exact cause of prediabetes isn't fully clear, but your family history and genes play a significant role. The only definite way to know if you have it is through a blood test ordered by your doctor. In the UK, if you're aged 40-74, the NHS Health Check includes a diabetes risk assessment and you should be invited for this check-up every five years to help detect early signs.