The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that about 84 million American adults have prediabetes, meaning that more than one in three American adults have this condition. Worst still, the vast majority are unaware that they have it. While those that have it often display little to no symptoms, this is nonetheless a serious health condition that can lead to problems down the road, including type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. 

 

If you are among those that are silently affected by prediabetes, it is very likely that you will develop type 2 diabetes in the future. However, this outcome isn’t set in stone. With the implementation of an active lifestyle, healthy diet, and medications, prediabetes can be not only kept in check but completely reversed. If you are concerned that you may be suffering from prediabetes, schedule an appointment to have your blood sugar tested by Jesal V. Popat, M.D., FACC, a board-certified specialist in interventional cardiology in Tampa. 

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The Complications of Prediabetes

While the exact cause of prediabetes has yet to be determined, what is certain is that those who suffer from prediabetes are incapable of processing sugar (glucose) normally. Ideally, glucose and insulin levels are in balance with each other. Prediabetes causes an excess of glucose in the bloodstream. As a result, the body either can’t produce enough insulin or develops insulin resistance.  

 

While not high enough to be diagnosed as diabetes, the high blood sugar levels of prediabetes can lead to serious complications, including cardiovascular disease, heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, nerve damage, osteoporosis, and even Alzheimer’s disease later in life. Once prediabetes progresses to type 2 diabetes, it becomes much more difficult to manage and live with. Diabetes itself can result in kidney failure, blindness, and amputation. If left unchecked, prediabetes can horribly impact your quality of life. 

Those at Risk of Developing Prediabetes 

As mentioned, those that suffer from prediabetes often experience no symptoms. But there are factors that can indicate when someone is at risk of developing this condition and should speak with a doctor. The risk factors for developing prediabetes and type 2 diabetes are as follows: 

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• Obesity 

• Poor diet

• Middle-aged

• Family history 

• Physical inactivity 

• Obstructive sleep apnea 

• Gestational diabetes

• Polycystic ovary syndrome

• Certain races and ethnicities 

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Preventing and Reversing Prediabetes is Our Priority

Despite the above complications, prediabetes can be effectively prevented and even reversed. Simple lifestyle changes, such as eating healthier foods and exercising more can help to prevent prediabetes and its development into type 2 diabetes. In some cases, anti-diabetic medications can be administered to treat prediabetes. 

 

At our cardiology practice, we can determine which treatment plan is right for you. We specialize in preventative measures and strive to explore every viable option in treating our patients’ conditions. Dr. Popat can perform a blood sugar test to determine if you suffer from prediabetes. From there, he can work with you to create a diet, exercise, and treatment plan to effectively treat your condition. Don’t allow prediabetes to progress into type 2 diabetes. To discuss prediabetes testing and treatment options, schedule an appointment with Dr. Popat, the best interventional cardiologist in Tampa. 

 

To consult Jesal V. Popat, M.D., FACC, the best interventional cardiologist in Tampa, please call (813) 344-0934 or fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment. 

 

Disclaimer: The contents of this website are for general educational purposes only. All content and media on the Jesal V. Popat, M.D., FACC website does not constitute professional medical advice nor is the information intended to replace the services of Jesal V. Popat, M.D., FACC or other qualified medical professionals. If you believe you are having a medical emergency, call 911 immediately. 

 

The content, views, and opinions communicated on this website do not represent the views of Jesal V. Popat, M.D., FACC. Reliance on any information provided by this website is solely at your own risk. Although this website contains links to other medical websites, this is strictly for informational purposes. Jesal V. Popat, M.D., FACC is not responsible nor does the medical practice approve of the content featured on any third party linked websites referenced on this website.