Red flags & when to go in person for Prediabetes (Lifestyle Counseling)

Audience: adult

Prediabetes means your blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not yet high enough to be diabetes. Lifestyle changes like healthy eating, regular exercise, and weight management can often help prevent or delay type 2 diabetes. Telemedicine can provide support and education about these changes. However, certain warning signs mean you should see a healthcare provider in person. These include symptoms like extreme thirst, frequent urination, sudden weight loss, or signs of infection. Telemedicine can guide you on managing prediabetes, but it cannot replace physical exams, lab tests, or urgent care when symptoms worsen. Knowing when to seek in-person care helps keep you safe and healthy.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Extreme thirst or dry mouth that does not improve
• Frequent urination, especially waking multiple times at night
• Sudden unexplained weight loss or blurred vision

What telemedicine can do

• Providing education on healthy eating and physical activity
• Setting lifestyle goals and coaching
• Reviewing symptoms and advising when to seek in-person care
• Supporting medication adherence if prescribed by a provider

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical exams or blood tests
• Diagnosing diabetes or complications
• Managing urgent symptoms or emergencies
• Prescribing or adjusting medications without prior in-person evaluation

What is Prediabetes and Why Lifestyle Matters

Prediabetes means your blood sugar is higher than normal but not high enough to be diabetes. It often has no symptoms. Making lifestyle changes such as eating healthy foods, being active, and losing excess weight can often lower your risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Early action is important to protect your health.

How Telemedicine Can Help

Telemedicine can provide education, coaching, and support to help you make lifestyle changes. You can discuss your diet, activity levels, and habits with a healthcare provider remotely. They can help set goals and answer questions. Telemedicine can also help monitor your progress and remind you to get regular lab tests.

When to See a Healthcare Provider In Person

Some signs mean you should get in-person care promptly:

These may indicate worsening blood sugar control or complications needing physical examination and tests.

Preparing for Your Telemedicine Visit

Before your tele-visit:

Being prepared helps make the visit effective.

After Your Telemedicine Visit

After your visit:

Consistent follow-up supports your health journey.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• List your current diet and exercise routines
• Note any new or worsening symptoms
• Have recent blood sugar or lab results available if possible
• Prepare questions about lifestyle changes or medications
• Ensure your device is charged and connected to the internet

After your tele-visit

• Follow lifestyle recommendations discussed during the visit
• Schedule and complete recommended lab tests
• Monitor symptoms and blood sugar as advised
• Contact your healthcare provider if red flag symptoms develop
• Keep a record of your progress and any concerns

FAQs

Can telemedicine help me prevent diabetes if I have prediabetes?

Yes, telemedicine can provide education and support to help you make lifestyle changes like healthy eating and regular exercise, which often reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

What symptoms mean I should see a doctor in person?

If you experience extreme thirst, frequent urination, sudden weight loss, blurred vision, or signs of infection, you should seek in-person medical care promptly.

Can telemedicine replace blood sugar testing?

No, blood sugar testing requires lab work or home devices. Telemedicine can help interpret results but cannot perform tests itself.

How often should I have follow-up visits for prediabetes?

Follow-up frequency varies but often includes visits every 3 to 6 months to monitor progress and adjust plans as needed.

Is medication usually needed for prediabetes?

Lifestyle changes are the first step. Sometimes medication is recommended, but this decision is best made by a healthcare provider after evaluation.

Sources

1. Prediabetes — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine / National Institutes of Health.
2. Prediabetes - CDC — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
3. Prediabetes: Lifestyle Changes Can Prevent Type 2 Diabetes — Mayo Clinic.
4. Prediabetes Overview — Merck Manuals Consumer Version.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If you experience any concerning symptoms or emergencies, please seek immediate medical attention.