Insulin resistance is a condition without specific symptoms, often leading to pre-diabetes, where glucose intolerance occurs despite the body producing insulin. However, insulin levels are insufficient to maintain normal blood sugar levels. Many individuals may not exhibit symptoms for years.
In severe cases of insulin resistance, some may develop dark patches on the skin known as acanthosis nigricans, typically found on the back of the neck but can also appear on elbows, knees, knuckles, and armpits. No clinical test exists for diagnosing insulin resistance, but it can be evaluated for research purposes by measuring insulin levels in the blood.
Treatment for insulin resistance is not specific, and no drugs are currently approved for its management or prevention of type 2 diabetes. However, certain measures can help improve insulin resistance, including:
- Regular physical activity
- Weight loss
- Healthy diet
While there’s no cure for insulin resistance, these lifestyle modifications can effectively manage the condition and reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.