Am I Diabetic? Symptoms and Blood Sugar Levels

Q: Am I Diabetic? Symptoms and Blood Sugar Levels

Dear Mr. Allen： 1. According to the diagnostic criteria for diabetes set by the American Diabetes Association： a. A fasting plasma glucose level of ≥126 mg/dL after fasting for at least 8 hours. b. A 2-hour plasma glucose level of ≥200 mg/dL d

Do I have diabetes?

I have been experiencing frequent dry mouth and thirst lately, constantly drinking water and urinating, yet I still feel thirsty.
I have had similar episodes before, and one morning my fasting blood sugar was as high as 124.
I'm not sure if it was related to drinking sugary beverages.
After that, I refrained from drinking sugary drinks for several days, and my fasting blood sugar was 108, but it is still elevated.
Am I diabetic? I am currently serving in the military and cannot see a doctor.
I've heard that diabetes is becoming more common among younger people, and I'm really worried that I might be one of them.
Will avoiding sugary drinks help improve my condition?

allen, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/05/25

Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Internal Medicine

Dear Mr.
Allen:
1.
According to the diagnostic criteria for diabetes set by the American Diabetes Association:
a.
A fasting plasma glucose level of ≥126 mg/dL after fasting for at least 8 hours.

b.
A 2-hour plasma glucose level of ≥200 mg/dL during an oral glucose tolerance test.

c.
A hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) level of ≥6.5% (this must be confirmed by a method that is certified by the National Glycohemoglobin Standardization Program (NGSP) and meets the standards of the Diabetes Control and Complications Trial (DCCT)).

All of the above (a, b, c) must be confirmed on two separate occasions.

d.
In the presence of clinical symptoms of diabetes (such as polyuria, polydipsia, polyphagia, and unexplained weight loss), a random plasma glucose level of ≥200 mg/dL is sufficient for diagnosis (this can be confirmed on one occasion only).
2.
The above are the diagnostic criteria for diabetes and can be used as a reference.
My personal recommendation is to consult your primary care physician or an endocrinologist to discuss your situation and undergo the necessary tests and diagnosis.
I cannot determine whether you have diabetes, impaired fasting glucose, or glucose intolerance.
3.
Current research indicates that the primary risk factors for developing type 2 diabetes include obesity, a family history of diabetes, physical inactivity, a history of cardiovascular disease, a history of gestational diabetes or giving birth to a baby weighing over 4 kg, polycystic ovary syndrome, acanthosis nigricans, dyslipidemia, and hypertension.
4.
Type 2 diabetes does not occur suddenly; it develops gradually due to factors such as obesity, poor dietary habits, lack of exercise, and unhealthy lifestyle choices.
Essentially, anyone with a family history of diabetes should consider early dietary and exercise interventions, as well as weight management, to potentially avoid the nightmare of diabetes.
5.
In terms of practical preventive measures, I personally recommend that you: chew your food thoroughly during meals, avoid overeating (aim for about 80% fullness), and limit the intake of high-calorie, high-fat, and high-sugar foods or beverages.
Reduce consumption of high-cholesterol and trans fats (often found in creamers, butter, ghee, instant coffee, milk tea, etc.) and high fructose corn syrup (commonly found in commercial beverages, desserts, sodas, and pastries).
These types of foods may be harder for the body to metabolize, may be high in calories without providing a feeling of fullness, and can lead to increased blood sugar levels.

On the other hand, it is important to develop a regular exercise routine, such as playing sports, jogging, swimming, or cycling.
In fact, taking a good walk for 30 to 60 minutes after each meal can be very beneficial.
In terms of lifestyle, it is important to manage stress levels and ensure adequate sleep; this will help reduce the excessive secretion of related hyperglycemic hormones and increase the secretion of leptin, aiding in weight management.

Reply Date: 2017/05/25

More Info

Based on your symptoms and blood sugar levels, it is understandable to be concerned about the possibility of diabetes. The symptoms you describe—persistent thirst, frequent urination, and elevated fasting blood sugar levels—are indeed common indicators of diabetes. However, diagnosing diabetes requires a more comprehensive evaluation.

According to the American Diabetes Association (ADA), diabetes can be diagnosed based on several criteria:
1. Fasting Plasma Glucose (FPG): A fasting blood sugar level of 126 mg/dL or higher indicates diabetes. Your fasting blood sugar levels of 124 mg/dL and 108 mg/dL are concerning but do not meet the diagnostic threshold for diabetes. However, they do suggest that you may be experiencing impaired fasting glucose, which is a precursor to diabetes.

2. Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT): This test involves measuring blood sugar levels two hours after consuming a sugary drink. A level of 200 mg/dL or higher indicates diabetes.

3. Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c): An HbA1c level of 6.5% or higher is also indicative of diabetes. This test reflects average blood sugar levels over the past two to three months.

4. Symptoms and Random Plasma Glucose: If you have classic symptoms of hyperglycemia (such as excessive thirst, frequent urination, and unexplained weight loss) and a random plasma glucose level of 200 mg/dL or higher, this can also confirm a diabetes diagnosis.

Given your symptoms and the fasting blood sugar readings, it is advisable to monitor your blood sugar levels closely. While your levels are not yet in the diabetic range, they are elevated, which could indicate a risk for developing diabetes in the future.
Lifestyle Changes: You mentioned that you have been consuming a lot of sugary drinks. Reducing or eliminating these beverages can significantly impact your blood sugar levels. Sugary drinks can cause spikes in blood glucose and contribute to weight gain, which is a risk factor for type 2 diabetes. Instead, focus on drinking water, herbal teas, or other low-calorie beverages.
In addition to dietary changes, regular physical activity is crucial. Exercise helps improve insulin sensitivity and can lower blood sugar levels. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity each week, along with strength training exercises on two or more days a week.

Monitoring and Follow-Up: Since you are currently unable to see a doctor due to your military commitments, consider scheduling an appointment as soon as you can. Regular check-ups are essential, especially if you have a family history of diabetes or are experiencing symptoms. If you continue to have elevated blood sugar levels or if your symptoms worsen, it is crucial to seek medical attention.

In summary, while you do not currently meet the criteria for diabetes, your symptoms and blood sugar levels indicate that you should take proactive steps to manage your health. Making dietary changes, increasing physical activity, and monitoring your blood sugar levels will be beneficial. If you have any further concerns or if your symptoms persist, please seek medical advice as soon as possible.

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