15 Complications Linked To Prediabetes

Prediabetes doesn’t come with flashing signs or obvious symptoms—that’s what makes it so dangerous. Often called a silent precursor to type 2 diabetes, it means your blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not quite in the diabetic range. Many people dismiss it as a “not yet” diagnosis, but prediabetes is far from harmless. In fact, it can quietly set the stage for serious health issues long before diabetes is officially diagnosed. Studies show that up to 90% of those with prediabetes don’t even know they have it. That’s why early detection and lifestyle shifts are critical. Testing is especially important if you’re over 45, have a family history of diabetes, or struggle with high blood pressure or weight. To help you understand what’s really at stake, we’ve expanded our list to 15 Complications Linked to Prediabetes—each one a powerful reason to take action now, not later.

1. Progression To Type 2 Diabetes

Progression to type 2 diabetes is the most common complication of prediabetes. While prediabetes doesn't normally produce symptoms, several symptoms may develop in patients who are progressing to type 2 diabetes. For example, patients may experience darkened skin on their knuckles, knees, neck, or elbows. If increased thirst, blurred vision, fatigue, or frequent urination (more than eight times per day) develop, this suggests patients have most likely progressed to the diabetic range. To slow down or eliminate the risk of progression to type 2 diabetes, patients should speak with their healthcare provider about weight loss, dietary changes, and exercise plans that may help. Some communities have special support groups dedicated to preventing diabetes in patients struggling with prediabetes.

2. Unrecognized Heart Attacks

Patients with prediabetes are at an increased risk of cardiovascular complications, including unrecognized heart attacks. These types of heart attacks may not be detected until patients receive cardiovascular screening tests at routine physical exams. Generally, these attacks produce vague, subtle symptoms patients may dismiss as indigestion or another minor ailment. For example, unrecognized ('silent') heart attacks can cause patients to have shortness of breath, and this may be accompanied by discomfort in an arm or leg or in the throat, neck, or jaw. Patients may feel unusually fatigued for no known reason. Electrocardiograms and echocardiograms can detect silent heart attacks; electrocardiograms are sometimes performed on patients who are fifty years old or older during annual physicals. Damage caused by an unrecognized heart attack may lead to serious arrhythmias and heart valve issues.