10 Prediabetes Symptoms
5. Fatigue
Fatigue is a medical term that can be defined as a pathologic sensation of constant tiredness that is very profound and has no identifiable cause by the patient (i.e. overworking, lack of sleep). Additionally, this extreme tiredness generally does not improve with rest. It is a symptom of a variety of medical conditions, including prediabetes. In fact, undiagnosed prediabetes is one of the most common causes of fatigue.
Insulin is necessary for the transportation of sugar (glucose) from the bloodstream into our cells. Without it, the cells of the body can’t receive the energy they require for basic functions. In prediabetes, the body’s cells might not respond normally to insulin (insulin resistance); thus, glucose builds up in the blood instead of entering the cells. Episodes of high blood glucose (hyperglycemia) and blood glucose fluctuations are known to produce fatigue in patients with prediabetes and diabetes. Additionally, certain conditions or risk factors that can be associated with prediabetes can also lead to fatigue. These include obesity, reduced physical activity, and poor nutrition. Finally, increased urination in prediabetes can cause dehydration and contribute to fatigue as well.
Advertisement
