• Published on: Sep 26, 2021
  • 3 minute read
  • By: Second Medic Expert

What Is The Meaning Of Pre-diabetic?

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What is the meaning of pre-diabetic?

Pre-diabetes is the stage that comes before type 2 diabetes. If blood sugar levels are high but not yet high enough to be classified as type 2 diabetes, then you are pre-diabetic.

A person may have pre-diabetes if they find it hard to control their blood glucose levels.

It is important to note how long you have had this condition and what your other risk factors are like such as age, history of gestational diabetes, history of cardiovascular disease, family history (genetic heritability), obesity (BMI > 30), physical inactivity.

Pre-diabetic people tend to be insulin resistant or sensitive when they're not eating anything, and the fasting level is high at 138 mg/dl and when they're drinking glucose their fasting level goes up even more and after a meal, their blood sugar goes up higher than 140 mg/dl at least two times in 225.

Someone affected by pre-diabetes has an impaired ability to produce insulin, which is necessary to regulate glucose levels. This could lead to high blood sugar over time. People who are pre-diabetic may suffer from polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), normal aging or another illness that causes the pancreas to fail to work properly. A person suffering from pre-diabetes is suffering from high blood sugar levels. A person suffering from diabetes not Type 1 is suffering from high blood sugar levels.

Sometimes people are diagnosed with pre-diabetes instead of Type II Diabetes because it's more common in the population. Pre-diabetes occurs when the body cannot produce enough insulin or process glucose properly to regulate blood sugar, but that can be managed through diet and exercise in most cases.

Type I Diabetes is when a person cannot make any insulin at all, whereas type II might be caused by, for example, an unfortunate metabolic issue or lifestyle change like eating too many sweets or quitting smoking.

Pre-diabetic refers to a person who has blood sugar levels that qualify him or her as "pre-high blood glucose" but not high enough to be considered diabetic yet. Pre-diabetes is a temporary condition in which the body starts to develop insulin resistance, and the cells of your pancreas start secreting more and more of their own insulin to avoid producing too much glucose. Eventually, this becomes counterproductive, the pancreas becomes so resistant it can't keep up with demand anymore, and type 2 diabetes occurs. However, pre-diabetes does not require any treatment because by avoiding junk food and excessive portions (and exercising) you will likely get off pre-diabetics without ever developing diabetes. Pre-diabetes is a term to describe high blood insulin levels that are on the cusp of developing type 2 diabetes but haven't yet.

Type 2 diabetes develops when cells lose their insulin receptors and cannot create enough sugar for themselves. This means the body has to produce more and more insulin in order to get glucose into any cells with remaining insulin receptors (such as muscle or fat cells). Over time, high levels of circulating hormones lead to damage in the small vessels that provide oxygen and nutrients — particularly to kidneys — putting them at risk of failure. This can happen over decades and is referred to as "insulin resistance".

The primary goal for people suffering from pre-diabetes should be lifestyle change: reduce weight. Pre-diabetic means that you are at high risk for developing type 2 diabetes. If you're overweight, have a family history of diabetes, develop gestational diabetes while pregnant, or if it runs in your household then pre-diabetes is more likely to progress into type 2 diabetes.

Pre-diabetic means that a patient has been diagnosed as prediabetic – that is, their blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not yet high enough to be classified as having diabetes. People with pre-diabetes have a greatly increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. One study found that adults who had one or more characteristics of the metabolic syndrome exhibited a 46% reduction in risk for the development of diabetes over 4 years following blinded diagnosis if they took metformin therapy alone or with other agents, compared to those on placebo therapy. In addition, people with pre-metabolic syndrome specifically were found to have 89?creased risks for this development

The term pre-diabetic is typically applied to patients who have impaired glucose tolerance or who are at risk for developing type 2 diabetes. A patient is considered a pre-diabetic when he or she has high blood sugar levels that may lead to progression into full-blown diabetes, called Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, but doesn't meet the diagnostic criteria for T2DM. In other words, the cells of this patient's body aren't quite as dysfunctional as those of a diabetic, yet they show signs of dysfunction. This stage falls between normal and diabetic and is sometimes referred to as prediabetes because it puts an individual at "risk" for T2DM development.

A pre-diabetic person is one who exhibits signs that they may be diabetic. The symptoms include stomach pains, frequent urination, and sudden weight loss. Pre-diabetes used to be known as age-related diabetes and are common in adults who are overweight and have high blood pressure or abnormal cholesterol levels. Early-onset of pre-diabetes can lead to both short-term and long-term risks including heart disease, strokes, kidney failure, blindness caused by diabetic retinopathy (Eye) as well as early death for people with type 2 diabetes.

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The Rise of Telehealth: Benefits and Best Practices

The Rise of Telehealth: Benefits and Best Practices

In recent years, technology has changed the way we work, shop, and even access healthcare. One of the most significant transformations in the healthcare industry is the rise of telehealth. What was once considered a futuristic option has now become a mainstream method of getting medical care. Whether it’s a virtual consultation with a doctor or getting lab reports online, telehealth is making healthcare more accessible, convenient, and efficient.

In this blog, we’ll explore how telehealth is growing, its many benefits, and the best practices you can follow to make the most of this modern healthcare approach.

 

What is Telehealth?

Telehealth refers to the use of digital communication tools like video calls, mobile apps, and websites to provide healthcare services remotely. It includes doctor consultations, follow-ups, mental health therapy, diet advice, and even chronic disease management. You no longer need to visit a clinic or hospital physically for every health concern—some can be addressed right from your home.

 

Why Telehealth is Growing

Several factors are fueling the growth of telehealth:

  1. Technological Advancements – High-speed internet, smartphones, and video conferencing tools have made virtual communication smoother.
     

  2. Pandemic Influence – The COVID-19 pandemic created a strong push for remote medical care due to lockdowns and social distancing.
     

  3. Busy Lifestyles – Many people now prefer digital consultations to save time and avoid travel.
     

  4. Increased Accessibility – Telehealth allows patients in rural or remote areas to connect with doctors easily.
     

This digital shift is not a trend—it’s a transformation. And it’s here to stay.

 

Key Benefits of Telehealth

1. Convenience

Imagine speaking to a doctor from your home, office, or while traveling—telehealth offers unmatched convenience. No waiting rooms, no travel time, and no time off work.

2. Accessibility

Telehealth bridges the gap for people in villages or far-off areas who don’t have access to specialists nearby. A phone or internet connection is all they need.

3. Cost Savings

Teleconsultations are often more affordable than in-person visits. You also save on travel, childcare, and time off work.

4. Timely Care

With telehealth, you can get medical advice quickly, which helps in early diagnosis and faster recovery. Minor symptoms can be treated before they become major problems.

5. Better Chronic Disease Management

Patients with diabetes, heart conditions, or asthma can regularly monitor their health and adjust medications under their doctor’s virtual guidance.

6. Mental Health Support

Telehealth has made therapy and counseling more accessible, especially for people who may feel uncomfortable visiting a clinic in person.

7. Privacy and Comfort

Many patients feel more at ease discussing sensitive issues from the privacy of their homes, leading to better communication with doctors.

 

Best Practices for a Great Telehealth Experience

To get the most out of your virtual healthcare experience, here are some best practices to follow:

1. Choose a Reliable Platform

Use a secure and trusted telehealth provider like SecondMedic. Make sure the app or website is user-friendly and encrypted to protect your data.

2. Have Your Medical History Ready

Keep past prescriptions, test results, and details of your symptoms handy. This helps the doctor understand your condition faster.

3. Find a Quiet, Private Space

Pick a quiet room for your appointment where you can speak freely and avoid interruptions.

4. Check Your Internet and Devices

Ensure your phone, tablet, or computer is charged, and your internet connection is stable. Use headphones for better sound quality.

5. Ask Questions

Don’t hesitate to clarify your doubts. Whether it’s about the diagnosis, medications, or next steps—clear communication leads to better care.

6. Follow Up

After your appointment, follow your doctor’s instructions and attend any scheduled follow-up calls. Keep track of your symptoms and share updates if needed.

 

Telehealth and Lab Testing

Telehealth is not just about talking to a doctor. Many platforms, including SecondMedic (powered by Thyrocare), allow you to book lab tests online, get home sample collection, and receive results digitally.

Here are some tests you can book via telehealth for complete care:

  • Full Body Checkup

  • Diabetes Profile

  • Thyroid Function Test

  • Vitamin Deficiency Test

  • Liver & Kidney Function Test

  • Heart Risk Screening
     

These tests help doctors monitor your health remotely and adjust treatments without needing a physical clinic visit.

 

Who Should Use Telehealth?

Telehealth is suitable for:

  • Working professionals with tight schedules

  • Elderly patients with mobility issues

  • Parents needing pediatric advice

  • Patients with mental health concerns

  • People in rural or remote locations
     

However, it may not be ideal for emergencies like severe injuries or conditions requiring immediate physical examination.

 

Conclusion

The healthcare industry is evolving fast, and telehealth is leading this change. It offers a safe, efficient, and flexible way to access medical care. With the right approach and trusted platforms like SecondMedic, patients can get quality healthcare without stepping out of their homes.

Whether you need a general check-up, specialist consultation, mental health support, or lab tests—telehealth has got you covered.

 Ready to experience the future of healthcare? Book your consultation now and discover the advantages with The Rise of Telehealth: Benefits and Best Practices on SecondMedic!

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