What is Type 2 Diabetes?
Type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition in which the body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn’t make enough insulin. Insulin is a hormone that helps glucose, or sugar, get from the blood into the cells. When the body doesn’t make enough insulin or can’t use it properly, glucose builds up in the blood.
Risk Factors for Type 2 Diabetes
Anyone can develop type 2 diabetes, but certain factors increase your risk, including:
- Age: Your risk of type 2 diabetes increases as you get older.
- Family history: If you have a family history of diabetes, you’re more likely to develop the condition.
- Weight: Being overweight or obese increases your risk of type 2 diabetes.
- Physical inactivity: People who are physically inactive are more likely to develop type 2 diabetes.
- Race/ethnicity: Certain racial and ethnic groups are more likely to develop type 2 diabetes, including African Americans, Hispanic Americans, American Indians, and Asian Americans.
- Other risk factors: Other risk factors for type 2 diabetes include having high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or a history of gestational diabetes.
Symptoms of Type 2 Diabetes
The symptoms of type 2 diabetes can be subtle at first and may go unnoticed. As the condition progresses, the symptoms become more noticeable and can include:
- Increased thirst
- Frequent urination
- Increased hunger
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fatigue
- Blurred vision
- Slow-healing sores
- Frequent infections
- Numbness or tingling in the hands or feet
Diagnosis of Type 2 Diabetes
Your doctor will diagnose type 2 diabetes based on your symptoms and a blood test. The blood test will measure your blood glucose levels. A fasting blood glucose level of 126 mg/dL or higher on two separate tests indicates diabetes.
Treatment for Type 2 Diabetes
The goal of treatment for type 2 diabetes is to lower your blood glucose levels to a healthy range. Treatment may include:
- Lifestyle changes: Lifestyle changes, such as losing weight, eating a healthy diet, and getting regular exercise, can help lower your blood glucose levels and improve your overall health.
- Medication: If lifestyle changes alone aren’t enough to lower your blood glucose levels, your doctor may prescribe medication. Medications for type 2 diabetes include insulin, oral medications, and injectable medications.
Complications of Type 2 Diabetes
If left untreated, type 2 diabetes can lead to serious complications, including:
- Heart disease
- Stroke
- Kidney disease
- Eye damage
- Nerve damage
- Amputation
Preventing Type 2 Diabetes
There is no sure way to prevent type 2 diabetes, but you can reduce your risk by making healthy lifestyle choices, such as:
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Eating a healthy diet
- Getting regular exercise
- Quitting smoking
- Managing your blood pressure and cholesterol
Living with Type 2 Diabetes
If you have type 2 diabetes, it’s important to work with your doctor to manage your condition and prevent complications. Treatment for type 2 diabetes is ongoing and may include lifestyle changes, medication, and regular monitoring of your blood glucose levels.
Conclusion
Type 2 diabetes is a serious condition, but it can be managed with proper treatment and lifestyle changes. If you have any of the symptoms of type 2 diabetes, see your doctor right away.
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