Type 2 Diabetes: What It Is, Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

Type 2 diabetes is one of the most common chronic conditions in which the body doesn’t use insulin, resulting in high blood sugar levels. It can silently develop over the years, often without noticeable signs at first, but it can lead to serious health complications if not managed properly. In this article, we’ll explain what type 2 diabetes is, its causes, symptoms, treatment options, and when to seek specialised care.

What is Type 2 Diabetes?

Type 2 diabetes is a medical condition in which the body either does not produce enough insulin or the cells become resistant to insulin. Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that helps move glucose (sugar) from the blood into the body’s cells, where it is used for energy.

When the body’s cells don’t respond to insulin properly, you become insulin resistant, and glucose starts accumulating in the bloodstream. Over time, the pancreas cannot keep up with the increased demand for insulin, and blood sugar levels remain persistently high.

Type 2 Diabetes Causes

The exact cause of type 2 diabetes isn’t known, but several risk factors contribute to its development. Here are some causes of type 2 diabetes:

• Genetics: Having a close relative with diabetes can raise your chances of developing the condition.
• Abdominal Weight Gain: Excess fat, especially around the waistline, may interfere with the body’s response to insulin.
• Sedentary Habits: Limited physical movement can reduce the body’s ability to manage blood sugar efficiently.
• Poor Nutrition: A diet filled with sugary drinks, refined grains, and high-fat fast food can increase the risk of long-term glucose imbalance.
• Advancing Age: Although it can develop at any age, the chance of being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes tends to rise after the age of 45.
• Cardiometabolic Issues: Elevated blood pressure or irregular cholesterol levels often accompany insulin resistance and may heighten diabetes risk.
• Gestational Diabetes History: Women who had diabetes during pregnancy have a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life.

Type 2 Diabetes Symptoms and Signs

Type 2 diabetes symptoms may develop slowly. In fact, many people with the condition may not notice anything unusual until serious complications occur.

Here are some common type 2 diabetes signs to watch for:

• Frequent urination
• Increased thirst
• Constant hunger
• Fatigue or low energy
• Blurry vision
• Slow-healing cuts or bruises
• Tingling, numbness, or pain in the hands and feet

In more advanced stages, additional complications can appear, such as vision loss, kidney problems, or cardiovascular issues. Some individuals may even experience hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar) due to medication or insulin treatment, leading to dizziness, confusion, or fainting.

Early detection and management are crucial to prevent long-term damage and complications, such as Diabetic Kidney Disease, nerve damage, and heart problems.

Diagnosis of Type 2 Diabetes

Doctors use a variety of blood tests to diagnose type 2 diabetes:

• Haemoglobin A1c Test: Measures average blood glucose over the past 2-3 months.
• Fasting Plasma Glucose Test (FPG): Measures blood sugar after fasting for 8 hours.
• Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT): Measures blood glucose before and after consuming a sugary drink.

If you have symptoms of diabetes or are at high risk, speak to your doctor about testing. An early diagnosis allows for better management and the chance to prevent complications.

Type 2 Diabetes Treatment

Type 2 diabetes treatment often focuses on lifestyle changes and, in some cases, medication.

Lifestyle Modifications

Lifestyle changes form the foundation of treatment:

• Healthy eating: Choose high-fibre, low-sugar foods like vegetables, fruits, legumes, and whole grains.
• Regular exercise: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity most days of the week.
• Weight management: Even a modest weight loss can improve insulin sensitivity.
• Stress reduction: Mindfulness and relaxation techniques help manage blood sugar levels.

Medications

If lifestyle changes are insufficient, your doctor may prescribe medications to lower glucose or insulin production. If necessary, they may ask you to get Insulin Therapy.

It’s important to work closely with your doctor to find the best combination of therapies for your specific needs. Some people can even reverse type 2 diabetes through sustained lifestyle changes.

When to See a Specialist

If your diabetes is difficult to control or if you develop complications, it may be time to consult a specialist. For example, if your yearly blood tests show elevated blood glucose levels, visiting an endocrinologist or diabetologist in Bangalore or the city you reside in can help address the increased blood glucose level.

Moreover, visiting an Endocrinology and Diabetology Hospital in Bangalore or the city you reside in can provide access to specialised care such as:

• Advanced diagnostic testing
• Personalised treatment plans
• Management of complications like Diabetic Kidney Disease or other diseases
• Education on blood sugar monitoring and insulin use

Living with Type 2 Diabetes

Living with type 2 diabetes requires daily attention, but it can be managed effectively with the right habits. Regularly monitoring your blood sugar helps you keep track of your condition. Paying attention to your diet by reading food labels and planning balanced meals can prevent sudden blood sugar changes. It’s also important to carry quick sources of sugar to treat low blood sugar episodes (hypoglycaemia). Don’t forget to have regular check-ups for your eyes, feet, and kidneys to catch any complications early. Working closely with your healthcare team, including endocrinologists and diabetologists, ensures you get the best care possible.

Conclusion

Type 2 diabetes is a common yet serious condition that requires long-term management. Understanding the type 2 diabetes causes, recognising the type 2 diabetes symptoms, and exploring your type 2 diabetes treatment options can empower you to take control of your health.

Remember, your health journey matters, and taking action today could lead to a healthier tomorrow.

Frequently Asked Questions

What distinguishes Type 1 diabetes from Type 2 diabetes?

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease where the body destroys the cells that produce insulin, leading to little or no insulin production, often starting in childhood. In contrast, Type 2 diabetes usually develops later and involves the body not responding well to insulin or producing insufficient amounts.

Can I reverse Type 2 diabetes completely?

No, but you can control Type 2 diabetes following a proper diet, exercise, and weight management. It’s important to follow medical advice to find the best approach.

What are the early signs of type 2 diabetes?

Common type 2 diabetes signs include frequent urination, excessive thirst, fatigue, blurry vision, and unexplained weight loss. These symptoms can develop gradually, so early detection through screening is important.

What foods should be avoided if you have type 2 diabetes?

Limit or avoid sugary drinks, processed snacks, refined carbohydrates (like white bread), deep-fried foods, and foods high in saturated fats. Focus on whole grains, lean protein, vegetables, and low-GI fruits.

What is hypoglycaemia and how is it related to diabetes?

Hypoglycaemia refers to low blood sugar levels, usually below 70 mg/dL. It can occur in people with diabetes, especially those taking insulin or certain oral medications. Symptoms include shakiness, sweating, confusion, and dizziness.

Can type 2 diabetes lead to kidney problems?

Yes. Over time, uncontrolled diabetes can damage the kidneys, a condition known as Diabetic Kidney Disease. It’s important to manage blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol to protect kidney health.

Is type 2 diabetes hereditary?

Genetics does play a role in type 2 diabetes. If you have a family history of diabetes, you are at a higher risk. However, lifestyle choices heavily influence whether or not the condition develops.