How Do I Know if I’m Prediabetic?
1. Evaluate Your Symptoms
If you think you might be prediabetic, evaluate and record your symptoms. Review the list of common symptoms above to get started. Once you know the symptoms of prediabetes, write down any that you experience and when you first noticed them. This could be as simple as writing them down on a piece of notebook paper or making a note on your phone.
When recording your symptoms, try to be as thorough and specific as possible. For example, if you notice increased thirst or urination, write down the date you first experienced these symptoms and how long they persisted. You should also make a note of any other symptoms you experienced at the same time. By being as specific as possible, you can help your healthcare provider rule out other conditions that could be triggering your symptoms.
2. Call a Healthcare Professional
Diagnosing prediabetes before it develops into type 2 diabetes can improve your chances of reversing it and help limit further complications. If you are experiencing any symptoms of prediabetes or suspect you have it, make an appointment with your healthcare provider to discuss your options.
During your appointment, tell your healthcare provider if you have a family history of type 2 diabetes and if any other risk factors apply to you. Depending on your medical history and symptoms, they may recommend further testing to verify your diagnosis.
3. Test for Prediabetes
Your healthcare provider may recommend testing for prediabetes or type 2 diabetes if you are experiencing one or more of the symptoms discussed above or have another condition that increases your risk.
A glycated hemoglobin (A1c) test is a common testing option for monitoring blood sugar levels over time. This test indicates your average blood sugar level over the past 2-3 months and measures the percentage of the hemoglobin in your red blood cells that are attached to sugar from your bloodstream.
This is a test you can take at home with our at-home HbA1c Test. Taking the test is easy: you simply collect a small sample of blood via a simple finger prick and ship the sample to a lab for analysis (a prepaid shipping label is included with the kit).
In addition to an A1c test, you can also learn more about your glucose levels with a fasting blood sugar test or an oral glucose tolerance test. Your healthcare provider can let you know if they suggest any of these blood glucose level tests. If your results indicate you have prediabetes, your healthcare provider may recommend that you have your A1c levels retested every year.
Getting an early diagnosis is essential to help reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes later on. Remember to review the warning signs and discuss your symptoms and testing options with your healthcare provider if you suspect that you might have prediabetes.
