Guide to Weight Loss Medications
Examine weight loss medications and the clinics offering them in Singapore. Find practical programs and meet knowledgeable weight management doctors.
November 12, 2024
Diabetes and pre-diabetes can be confusing terms for many. While diabetes is more widely recognised, pre-diabetes is just as important to be aware of for good health.
In this article, we will explain pre-diabetes and diabetes and highlight their fundamental differences. Knowing the attributes of these conditions can help you make informed choices for your health.
Pre-diabetes is a health condition that precedes the onset of type 2 diabetes. It is presented by levels of blood sugar that are higher than usual but not high enough to be diagnosed as diabetes.
Pre-diabetic individuals are at a higher risk of developing diabetes in the future if preventive measures are not taken.
The primary indicator of pre-diabetes is an elevated blood sugar level that is not high enough to be classified as diabetes. Nor
Pre-diabetes is divided into 2 main categories:
which is
* The 2-hour plasma glucose reading is usually derived from an oral glucose tolerance test, where after a night of fasting, a fasting blood glucose blood test is taken, after which a sweet drink will be given and a repeat blood test done 2-hours later.
Insulin resistance is a critical factor in pre-diabetes. It develops when the body's cells do not respond promptly to insulin, a hormone that regulates blood sugar.
As a result, the pancreas produces more insulin to compensate for the resistance, but the cells remain less responsive, leading to elevated blood sugar levels.
Read: 6 signs you might have pre-diabetes
Type 2 diabetes is marked by heightened blood sugar levels due to the body's failure to use insulin effectively. With this chronic medical condition, the pancreas produces more insulin, eventually failing to meet demand.
Diabetes is diagnosed when the fasting venous blood sugar level is 7.0mmol/L or higher, or a random venous blood sugar level is 11.1mmol/L or more. If there are no symptoms, 2 abnormal readings are required for a diagnosis of diabetes, but if there are symptoms present, like excessive thirst and urination, then the one abnormal reading is sufficient for a diagnosis of diabetes.
Diabetes involves a more significant insulin resistance and impaired insulin production as compared to pre-diabetes. This occurs as when the disease progresses the pancreas becomes less efficient at producing insulin, exacerbating the cells' inability to absorb glucose.
Diabetes is considered the advanced or later stage in the progression of metabolic disorders related to blood sugar levels. Pre-diabetes is an early warning sign, indicating elevated blood sugar levels that have not yet reached the diagnostic criteria for diabetes.
As pre-diabetes advances, it can develop into full-fledged diabetes if left unchecked.
The blood sugar levels to diagnose pre-diabetes is lower than that of diabetes. One simple comparison is between fasting venous glucose– for pre-diabetes, it is identified by a reading between 6.1 to 6.9mmol/L), whereas a diagnosis of diabetes requires fasting blood sugar levels of 7.0mmol/L or higher. The clear distinction in blood sugar levels helps determine the condition's stage.
In pre-diabetes, insulin resistance is the primary issue, and the pancreas still produces enough insulin to keep the sugar below the diabetic range. In diabetes, insulin resistance and inadequate insulin production is more severe and contribute to elevated blood sugar levels.
Managing pre-diabetes involves lifestyle modifications, such as adopting a healthy diet, exercising, and maintaining a healthy weight. These changes can often prevent the progression to diabetes.
In contrast, diabetes management typically requires medication, insulin therapy, and a more structured approach to diet and exercise. Regular screening to look out for complications of diabetes affecting eyes and nerves are also recommended.
Pre-diabetes signals an early stage of diabetes, and its reversible nature stems from the fact that the body's insulin production is still sufficient. With proactive lifestyle changes, the progression to diabetes can often be prevented.
On the other hand, diabetes involves a more advanced stage of insulin resistance and insufficient insulin production, making it a chronic condition that requires ongoing management as while it can go into remission with optimal control, it is not reversible.
Increased risk of complications: If pre-diabetes progresses to diabetes, your risk of these complications may rise. Type 2 diabetes is associated with a higher risk of various complications, including cardiovascular diseases, kidney problems, nerve damage, and eye issues.
Impact on daily life: The effect on your everyday life can be substantial as you navigate the adjustments required to manage type 2 diabetes.
Need for medications: Individuals with type 2 diabetes may need medications such as tablets or insulin injections. Being on medication can affect your daily routines and may involve ongoing medical supervision.
Monitoring health parameters: Monitoring blood sugar levels, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels will become a routine part of managing diabetes. These targets might have to be more stringent in order to prevent complications, depending on the severity of the condition.
Lifestyle modifications: Adhering to lifestyle changes to control the condition and making them a habit will take some getting used to.
Impact on long-term health: Type 2 diabetes requires long-term management for successful long-term outcomes.
If you have been diagnosed with pre-diabetes, working closely with your healthcare team to monitor and manage your condition is essential in stopping it from developing into diabetes.
While pre-diabetes is reversible with lifestyle changes, diabetes requires ongoing management and medical intervention. Regular check-ups can be the key to early detection and prevention, enabling you to take control of your health and well-being.
Lifestyle Medical Clinic offers comprehensive check-ups to detect pre-diabetes. These check-ups often include blood tests to measure fasting blood sugar levels and other health assessments. The goal is to identify pre-diabetes in its early development, allowing for timely intervention and reversing the condition.
To learn more about diabetes in Singapore and what you can do about it, contact us.
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