Insulin resistance: symptoms and when to seek advice
Insulin resistance is one of the most common metabolic disorders in the adult population and yet it often goes unnoticed for years. Because it is a silent process, many people are not diagnosed until complications such as prediabetes or type 2 diabetes have already developed. Recognising its symptoms and warning signs is key to acting in time.
What insulin resistance is
Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas whose main function is to allow the glucose present in the blood to enter the cells to be used as a source of energy. When insulin resistance is present, the body’s cells respond less effectively to this hormone, so the pancreas is forced to produce ever-increasing amounts to keep glucose levels within the normal range.
Over time, this excessive effort can exhaust the pancreas’s capacity, which encourages the onset of prediabetes and, subsequently, type 2 diabetes mellitus. According to data compiled by the American Diabetes Association (ADA), insulin resistance is one of the main factors involved in the development of this disease.
Main symptoms of insulin resistance
One of the most important things to bear in mind is that, in its early stages, insulin resistance usually occurs without obvious symptoms. Nevertheless, there are a number of signs that may raise suspicion of its presence and that are worth watching for:
- Weight gain, especially a build-up of fat around the abdomen.
- Persistent tiredness or fatigue, even after adequate rest.
- Difficulty losing weight despite following a diet and exercising.
- Darkening of the skin in folds such as the neck or armpits (acanthosis nigricans).
- Increased appetite or a frequent feeling of hunger.
- Elevated glucose or triglyceride levels in routine blood tests.
The presence of one or more of these signs does not necessarily indicate a diagnosis, but it does justify a medical assessment to rule out underlying metabolic disorders.
Associated risk factors
There are certain factors that increase the likelihood of developing insulin resistance, among them excess weight, a sedentary lifestyle, a family history of diabetes, polycystic ovary syndrome, advancing age and certain dietary habits high in sugars and saturated fats. The combination of several of these factors significantly increases the risk of developing this condition.
How insulin resistance is diagnosed
The diagnosis of insulin resistance is based on a combination of the clinical history, the physical examination and certain laboratory tests, such as fasting blood glucose, fasting insulin or the calculation of specific indices that allow the degree of resistance to be estimated. In some cases it may be necessary to carry out further tests to rule out other associated metabolic disorders.
It is important to note that an early diagnosis makes it possible to put therapeutic measures in place before more serious complications, such as type 2 diabetes or metabolic syndrome, develop.
When it is necessary to see a specialist
It is advisable to consult a specialist in internal medicine or endocrinology whenever there is a clinical suspicion of insulin resistance, particularly in the presence of excess weight, a family history of diabetes, menstrual irregularities in women with suspected polycystic ovaries, or compatible laboratory findings. The sooner this disorder is identified, the more effective the measures to reverse or control it will be.
At Dr Christian Leyva’s practice, a comprehensive assessment of the patient is carried out, analysing not only the laboratory data but also the patient’s lifestyle, medical history and other associated cardiovascular risk factors, within the framework of the care in internal medicine, diabetes and obesity that he offers in Huelva.
Treatment and management
The approach to insulin resistance is based fundamentally on lifestyle changes: a balanced diet, regular physical activity and, in certain cases, the use of specific pharmacological treatment. The main aim is to improve the cells’ sensitivity to insulin and reduce the risk of progression towards type 2 diabetes and other associated metabolic complications.
Regular physical activity, especially aerobic exercise combined with strength training, has been shown to improve the sensitivity of muscle cells to insulin directly, independently of weight loss. Likewise, prioritising a diet rich in fibre, quality protein and healthy fats, while reducing the intake of simple sugars and ultra-processed foods, helps to stabilise glucose and insulin levels throughout the day. These changes, sustained over time, tend to deliver better results than one-off interventions or short-term restrictive diets.
If you would like an assessment, book an appointment with Dr Christian Leyva
If you would like an individualised assessment of your case, Dr Christian Leyva offers specialist care in internal medicine, diabetes and obesity in Huelva, with an approach grounded in the most current scientific evidence. You can view all the services available or book an appointment in person or online.
Frequently asked questions
Is insulin resistance the same as diabetes?
No. Insulin resistance is a preceding stage that, if left uncontrolled, can progress to prediabetes and, eventually, to type 2 diabetes. Detecting it in time makes it possible to intervene before the disease appears.
Can insulin resistance be reversed?
In many cases, especially when it is detected early, sustained changes in diet and physical activity can significantly improve insulin sensitivity.
Which blood test detects insulin resistance?
Fasting blood glucose and fasting insulin are usually assessed and, on occasion, indices calculated from both values, together with the clinical evaluation of the patient.