Diabetes - Type 2
What is diabetes type 2?
Blood glucose, or blood sugar, levels that are excessively elevated are indicative of type 2 diabetes. The primary energy source you use is glucose. It derives from the food you consume. Your cells need glucose to function, and insulin is a hormone that facilitates this process.
When you have diabetes, your body either produces insufficient insulin or uses it improperly. The glucose therefore remains in your circulation, with insufficient amounts entering your cells. Blood glucose levels that are excessively high can eventually lead to health issues. However, you can strive to avoid these health issues and manage your diabetes.
What leads to diabetes type 2?
A number of factors may combine to create type 2 diabetes:
- Obesity or being overweight
- Absence of physical activity
- Family history and genetics
Insulin resistance is typically the first sign of type 2 diabetes. This is a disorder where insulin doesn't act normally on your cells. Your body therefore requires more insulin to facilitate the entry of glucose into your cells. In an initial attempt to stimulate cell response, your body produces more insulin. However, as time passes and your body is unable to produce enough insulin, your blood sugar levels rise.
What signs of diabetes type 2 are present?
Many type 2 diabetics don't even exhibit any symptoms. If you do have them, the signs appear gradually over a few years. They could be so subtle that you overlook them.
Among the symptoms are the following:
- Increased urination and thirst
- Increased hunger
- Tiredness
- Distorted eyesight
- Hands or feet numbness or tingling
- Ulcers that don't go away
- Unexpected weight reduction
What diabetes type 2 treatments are available?
Controlling your blood sugar levels is part of the treatment for type 2 diabetes. A healthy lifestyle helps a lot of people achieve this. Certain individuals could also require medication.
- Living a healthy lifestyle means eating a balanced diet and staying active regularly. It's important to learn how to balance your food and drink with physical activity and any diabetes medication you might be taking.
- Diabetes medications can include oral pills, insulin, and other injectables. Over time, you may need more than one type of medicine to keep your diabetes under control.
- Regularly checking your blood sugar is essential. Your healthcare provider will guide you on how often you need to do this.
- Keeping your blood pressure and cholesterol within the target range set by your provider is crucial. Make sure to get your screening tests done regularly to stay on top of your health.
You may successfully manage your blood sugar levels and have a healthy, satisfying life by remaining informed, keeping a careful eye on your health, and coordinating closely with your healthcare professional. To avoid issues and preserve your wellbeing, early detection and regular treatment are essential.