What is the first treatment tried for prediabetes?

Prediabetes means blood glucose is above the usual healthy range but not in the range used to diagnose diabetes. It can be managed with support rather than treated as an emergency. A clinician may arrange diabetes screening to confirm the result and establish a baseline. Nutrition counselling can turn general advice into meals and routines that fit your culture, work pattern and health needs. A weight management programme may be useful when weight is contributing to insulin resistance, but the plan should be individualised rather than based on a target chosen without medical advice.

Book a review to discuss your results and choose one or two changes you can sustain, such as replacing sugary drinks, adding regular walking, adjusting portions or building a consistent sleep routine. Keep follow-up screening appointments so changes in glucose can be checked. Tell the clinician about medicines, pregnancy, family history and conditions that may affect glucose. Do not start a restrictive diet or supplements without checking that they are appropriate for you.

Prediabetes itself often does not cause clear symptoms. Seek prompt medical advice for marked thirst, passing urine much more often, unexplained weight loss, vomiting, severe weakness or blurred vision, especially if symptoms develop quickly. Emergency help is needed for confusion, collapse or difficulty staying awake.

Ask what your screening result means, when it should be repeated, which change is most useful for you, and whether nutrition counselling or a weight management programme could provide practical support.