Type 2 diabetes is a chronic medical condition that affects how your body processes blood sugar. It is a progressive disease that develops over time due to various factors including genetics, lifestyle and environmental factors. People with type 2 diabetes have high blood sugar levels because their body either does not produce enough insulin or does not use it properly. This condition can lead to serious health complications such as heart disease, nerve damage, kidney damage and blindness. Type 2 diabetes is manageable with a combination of medication, lifestyle changes and regular monitoring of blood sugar levels. However, early detection and prevention through healthy lifestyle choices are crucial in avoiding the development of this disease.
Symptoms Of Type 2 Diabetes
The symptoms of type 2 diabetes can vary from person to person and may not always be noticeable in the early stages of the disease. However, some common signs and symptoms of type 2 diabetes include increased thirst and hunger, frequent urination, fatigue, blurred vision, slow healing of wounds, numbness or tingling in the hands or feet and recurring infections. Some people with type 2 diabetes may also experience weight loss despite an increased appetite as well as patches of dark, velvety skin around the neck or armpits. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to speak with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment. Early detection and management of type 2 diabetes can prevent serious health complications in the future.
Causes Of Type 2 Diabetes
There are several factors that can contribute to the development of type 2 diabetes including:
Age: As you get older there is risk of developing type 2 diabetes increases.
Obesity: Being obese or overweight can increase your risk of type 2 diabetes.
Genetics: Your risk of developing type 2 diabetes is higher if you have a family history of the condition.
Ethnicity: Some ethnic groups, including African Americans, Hispanic Americans and Native Americans are at a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Lifestyle factors: Eating a diet high in sugar, unhealthy fats and processed foods as well as being sedentary and not getting enough exercise can increase your risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Insulin resistance: Insulin is a hormone that helps your body use glucose for energy. If your body becomes resistant to insulin it can lead to high blood sugar levels and eventually type 2 diabetes.
Other health conditions: Certain health conditions such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can increase your risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Type 2 diabetes is often caused by a combination of these factors rather than any single cause. If you’re concerned about your risk of developing type 2 diabetes talk to your doctor about steps you can take to reduce.
Risk Factors Of Type 2 Diabetes
The following are some of the risk factors for type 2 diabetes:
Age: The risk of type 2 diabetes increases as people get older especially after the age of 45.
Smoking: Smoking can increase the risk of type 2 diabetes as well as other health problems.
Family history: Having a family history of type 2 diabetes increases the risk of developing the disease.
High cholesterol: High levels of LDL (bad) cholesterol and low levels of HDL (good) cholesterol can increase the risk of type 2 diabetes.
Race and ethnicity: Certain ethnic groups such as African Americans, Hispanic/Latino Americans, Native Americans and Asian Americans are more likely to develop type 2 diabetes.
Sedentary lifestyle: Lack of physical activity or a sedentary lifestyle is another risk factor for type 2 diabetes. Regular exercise helps to regulate blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity.
High blood pressure: Having high blood pressure can increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Gestational diabetes: Women who have had gestational diabetes during pregnancy are at a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life.
Obesity or overweight: Being overweight or obese is a major risk factor for type 2 diabetes. Excess body fat especially in the abdominal area can cause insulin resistance.
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): Women with PCOS are at a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Diagnosis Of Type 2 Diabetes
Type 2 diabetes can be diagnosed through a series of tests and examinations. Some of the diagnostic methods including:
Hemoglobin A1C test: This test measures the average blood sugar level over the past 2 to 3 months. A result of 6.5% or higher indicates diabetes.
Glycated Albumin (GA) test: This test measures the average blood glucose level over the past 2 to 3 weeks. A result of 14% or higher indicates diabetes.
Random plasma glucose test: This test measures blood sugar levels at a random time and a 200 mg/dL or higher along with symptoms indicates diabetes.
Fasting plasma glucose test (FPG): This test measures blood sugar levels after an overnight fast of at least 8 hours. 126 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) or higher on separate occasions indicates diabetes.
Oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT): This type of test involves drinking a sugary solution and measuring blood sugar levels 2 hours later.
Diagnosis of diabetes should be confirmed with a second test on a different day. Additionally, symptoms such as increased thirst, frequent urination, blurred vision and fatigue can also indicate diabetes and should be discussed with a healthcare provider.
Treatment Of Type 2 Diabetes
The treatment of type 2 diabetes involves a combination of lifestyle changes and medication. The primary goal of treatment is to control blood sugar levels and prevent complications. The following are some of the treatment options:
Weight loss: Losing weight can help improve insulin sensitivity and blood sugar control and it can be achieved through a combination of exercise and diet.
Medications: Various medications can be used to treat type 2 diabetes including metformin, sulfonylureas, meglitinides, DPP4 inhibitors, GLP1 receptor agonists, SGLT2 inhibitors and insulin. These medications work to lower blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity.
Lifestyle changes: Diet and exercise are important components of managing type 2 diabetes. A healthy diet that is low in carbohydrates and high in fiber, fruits and vegetables can help regulate blood sugar levels. Regular physical activity, such as brisk walking can also help improve insulin sensitivity.
Quitting smoking: Quitting smoking can help improve blood sugar control and reduce the risk of complications.
Regular checkups: Regular checkups with a healthcare provider are important to monitor blood sugar levels and detect any potential complications.
Stress management: Stress can affect blood sugar levels so managing stress through techniques such as meditation or yoga can help improve diabetes management.
Blood sugar monitoring: Regular blood sugar monitoring is essential in managing type 2 diabetes. This involves self testing using a glucometer to track blood sugar levels and adjust treatment accordingly.
The specific treatment plan for type 2 diabetes varies depending on the individual and should be determined in consultation with a healthcare provider.
Conclusion
In type 2 diabetes the body becomes resistant to insulin or does not produce enough insulin to regulate blood sugar levels. It is a growing public health problem worldwide with significant impacts on individuals, families and healthcare systems. Managing type 2 diabetes is a lifelong process that requires a combination of medication, lifestyle changes and regular monitoring. Effective management can prevent or delay complications such as cardiovascular disease, kidney disease, neuropathy, retinopathy and amputation. It is important to work closely with a healthcare provider to develop an individualized treatment plan and achieve optimal diabetes management.