Diabetes

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Pre-diabetes (Non-Diabetic Hyperglycaemia)

What is Non-Diabetic Hyperglycaemia?

Non-diabetic hyperglycaemia, (pre-diabetes), is a condition where blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not high enough to mean that you have type 2 diabetes. It is a warning sign indicating that the body is at increasing risk of developing diabetes.

According to NHS guidelines and the Public Health England report, blood sugar levels for non-diabetic hyperglycaemia fall between:

• HbA1c level: 42-47 mmol/mol
• Fasting plasma glucose: 6.1–6.9 mmol/L

If left unmanaged, non-diabetic hyperglycaemia can lead to type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and other health complications.

What are the Symptoms of Non-Diabetic Hyperglycaemia?

Non-Diabetic Hyperglycaemia does not have symptoms so if you experience any of the following symptoms then seek then please book an appointment with us, as these symptoms may mean that you are developing diabetes.

• Feeling excessive thirst
• Passing urine often
• Fatigue
• Blurred vision
• Slow healing of cuts and wounds
• Unintended weight loss

Since these symptoms are often subtle or absent, regular screening is crucial, especially for those at higher risk of developing the condition.

Is Non-Diabetic Hyperglycaemia Reversible?

Introducing right changes in your life can potentially reverse Non-Diabetic Hyperglycaemia. 

• Healthy diet: A healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and lean proteins while eliminating processed foods and sugar can help improve blood sugar levels to normal levels.
• Regular physical activity: At least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week enables the body to use blood sugar as fuel and can help improve insulin sensitivity. Such exercise can include brisk walking, cycling, or swimming.
• Weight management: Losing even 5%–10% of body weight can help improve blood sugar levels.
• Quitting smoking: Smoking increases insulin resistance and hence blood sugar levels. Quitting smoking can help improve overall health.

The onset of type 2 diabetes can be delayed or altogether prevented by making these changes.

What People are Likely to Have Non-Diabetic Hyperglycaemia?

Introducing right changes in your life can potentially reverse Non-Diabetic Hyperglycaemia.

• Age: The risk increases with age, particularly for those over 40 years.
• Family history: A close relative (parent or sibling) with type 2 diabetes increases your risk.
• Overweight or obesity: Excess body fat, particularly around the abdomen (called "central obesity"), increases the likelihood of developing insulin resistance.
• Sedentary lifestyle: A lack of physical activity contributes to poor blood sugar control.
• Ethnicity: People of South Asian, African-Caribbean, or Black African descent are more likely to develop non-diabetic hyperglycaemia at a younger age and lower body mass index (BMI).
• History of gestational diabetes: Women who had diabetes during pregnancy are at higher risk.
• Other health conditions: High blood pressure, abnormal cholesterol levels, and a history of heart disease can also increase the risk.

Conclusion

Non-diabetic hyperglycaemia is an early indicator of potential future health problems, but it is a condition that can often be reversed or managed with lifestyle changes. Regular monitoring, especially if you fall into one of the higher-risk groups, and early intervention are key to preventing the progression to type 2 diabetes. If you think you may be at risk, please book an appointment at Bredbury Medical Centre to get tested and explore how lifestyle adjustments can benefit your long-term health.

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