What is it?
After you eat, your body breaks down food into glucose, a type of sugar. A hormone called insulin helps your body absorb glucose. If your body can’t make enough insulin or the insulin does not work properly, you may develop diabetes.
Pre-diabetes is a condition that occurs before type 2 diabetes. If not well managed, diabetes can cause heart attack and stroke. It can also damage the eyes, nerves, and kidneys.
The fact that you don’t have type 2 diabetes yet is good news, though. It means it’s not too late to get healthy.
What will my GP do?
Your GP will help you make lifestyle changes including:
- Weight loss
- Physical activity
- Changes to diet
- Stopping smoking
Your GP will check other heart risks including blood pressure and
cholesterol.
What will my GP do in the future?
Your GP will see you every 3-6 months for check-ups.
Your GP will organise another glucose test in 12 months, unless you develop symptoms of diabetes earlier.
Symptoms of diabetes include increased thirst, urinating more, and blurred vision.
What can I do?
Your health is in your hands. Here’s how you can stay healthy and reduce your risk of developing type 2 diabetes or heart disease:
- Follow your GP’s advice about healthy eating
- Speak to your GP about a referral to a support service
- Attend group education classes
- Ask questions if you’re not sure about anything
