Community Answer

Answered by Dr. Emily Carter, MD

Prediabetes often has no clear symptoms, but certain risk factors and tests can help identify it. Here’s how to tell if you might be prediabetic:

  • Risk Factors:

    • Being overweight or obese.
    • Having a family history of diabetes.
    • Being physically inactive.
    • Having high blood pressure or cholesterol.
    • Being over 45 years old.
  • Diagnostic Tests:

    • A1C Test: Measures average blood sugar over the past 2-3 months.
      • Normal: Below 5.7%
      • Prediabetes: 5.7% to 6.4%
      • Diabetes: 6.5% or above
    • Fasting Blood Sugar Test: Measures blood sugar after fasting.
      • Normal: Less than 100 mg/dL
      • Prediabetes: 100-125 mg/dL
      • Diabetes: 126 mg/dL or higher
    • Oral Glucose Tolerance Test: Measures blood sugar before and after drinking a sugary drink.
      • Prediabetes: 140-199 mg/dL after 2 hours

If you have risk factors or test results in the prediabetes range, consult your doctor for further evaluation and a management plan.

Last updated: 1/12/2025

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