Blood glucose above the normal range but below the diagnostic threshold for diabetes is often called prediabetes. It is not merely “almost having a disease”; it signals a higher future risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular problems. Because it usually causes no symptoms, the absence of thirst or frequent urination does not rule it out.
The test and result should first be confirmed—for example, fasting glucose, HbA1c or an oral glucose-tolerance test—while considering anaemia, medicines and other factors that can affect interpretation. Reducing sugary drinks, refined carbohydrates and excess portions, increasing regular activity, improving sleep and gradually losing excess weight where appropriate can lower risk. Some higher-risk individuals may also be offered medicine.
TCM may offer supportive care based on appetite, thirst, fatigue, sleep and digestion, but symptom improvement cannot replace repeat glucose testing. Marked thirst and urination, unexplained weight loss, persistent vomiting, drowsiness or abnormal breathing requires prompt medical assessment.
Follow-up intervals and targets should be individualised. People close to the diabetes threshold, with previous gestational diabetes, ongoing weight gain or a strong family history may need closer review. Testing remains important even after improvement because risk changes with age, weight and medicines.
