What is Diabetes Type 2?

Diabetes is a serious disease that millions of people struggle with every day. It is a condition that causes high blood sugar levels, and it can lead to many health problems if not controlled. If you have diabetes, it is important to learn as much as possible about the disease and how to manage it. Below is basic information about diabetes, including the causes, symptoms, and complications.

What is diabetes, type 2?

Diabetes, type II, is a long-term illness in which the body’s ability to keep blood sugar at just the right level is lost. It happens when the pancreas stops producing enough insulin or when the body’s cells are unable to fully utilize what insulin it does produce.

As a result, there is far too much sugar in the circulation-diabetes, type II, is most often diagnosed in adults over the age of 40, but it is becoming more common in children and teenagers. While it used to be considered a disease of affluence, it is now known that diabetes, type II, can affect anyone, regardless of income or lifestyle.

There is no cure for diabetes, type II, but it can be managed through diet, exercise, and medication. With proper treatment, people with diabetes can live long and healthy lives. If you have been diagnosed with diabetes, type II, it is important to see your doctor regularly and follow their treatment recommendations.

Complications of diabetes type 2

Several complications can arise from diabetes type II, some more serious than others. These include:

1. Heart disease and stroke.

Diabetes greatly increases your risk of both heart disease and stroke. This is because diabetes can cause damage to your blood vessels and nerves. The good news is that you can greatly reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke by making healthy choices and controlling your blood sugar levels.

2. High blood pressure.

About 65% to 80% of people with diabetes have high blood pressure. The pressure forces your heart to work harder. Over time, this can damage your heart and lead to heart disease.

It can also damage the blood vessels in your kidneys. This can result in kidney disease or failure. High blood pressure is often referred to as “the silent killer” because it has no symptoms. That’s why it’s important to have your blood pressure checked regularly if you have diabetes.

3. Blindness.

Diabetic retinopathy is the leading cause of blindness in persons aged 20 to 74. Diabetic retinopathy usually affects both eyes. It often has no early symptoms, so you may not know you have it. If you have diabetes, it is important to see an eye doctor at least once a year. A comprehensive dilated eye exam can detect early signs of diabetic retinopathy.

4. Amputations.

Many nontraumatic lower-limb amputations are performed in persons with diabetes in the United States. More than half of these procedures are associated with peripheral arterial disease (PAD). Persons with diabetes have a fourfold increased risk for PAD and a two- to threefold increased risk for lower-limb amputation compared with persons without diabetes.

5. Skin conditions.

Skin problems are common in people who have diabetes. High blood sugar can cause the skin on your body to become dry, itchy, and cracked. You may also get a fungal infection called athlete’s foot. If you have nerve damage from diabetes, you might not feel pain if you get a cut or an infection on your foot. That’s why it’s important to check your feet every day for cuts, sores, or redness. If you have any of these, call your doctor right away.

6. Hearing impairment.

Diabetes can cause hearing impairment for several reasons. First, high blood sugar can damage the tiny vessels that bring oxygen and nutrients to the cochlea, a key part of the inner ear. This damage can lead to death of the nerves and loss of hearing. Additionally, diabetes can cause changes in fluid levels in the body, including increased fluid in the inner ear, leading to hearing loss.

If you have diabetes, it’s important to have your hearing checked regularly. If you notice any changes in your hearing, see a doctor right away. Hearing loss from diabetes is treatable if it’s caught early.

7. Sleep apnea.

Sleep apnea is a condition in which your breathing pauses or becomes very shallow while you sleep. People with diabetes are more likely to have sleep apnea, especially if they are overweight. Sleep apnea can cause daytime fatigue and irritability and increase your risk for heart disease and stroke. If you think you might have sleep apnea, talk to your doctor.

How to manage Diabetes Type 2.

Diabetes Type II can be managed through diet, lifestyle changes, and medication. There are three primary goals in managing diabetes:

• Reduce the risk of complications
• Achieve and maintain near-normal blood sugar levels
• Prevent or delay the onset of diabetes-related problems such as heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, nerve damage, and blindness.

Diet is a critical part of managing diabetes. Foods high in sugar and carbohydrates can cause spikes in blood sugar levels, so eating a balanced diet that includes plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats is important. It is also important to limit sugary drinks and foods high in saturated fat.

Signs and symptoms.

Diabetes Type II is a chronic condition that can lead to complications if left untreated. Symptoms include:

• Increased thirst
• Frequent urination
• Extreme fatigue
• Blurry vision
• Slow-healing wounds or sores

If you experience any of these symptoms, be sure to contact your doctor. With proper treatment, you can live a long and healthy life.

Conclusion.

Diabetes type ll is a serious condition that can lead to many health complications. If you have type II diabetes, it is important to work with your healthcare team to manage your condition. With proper management, you can live a long and healthy life.

It’s important to remember that type 2 diabetes is a progressive condition. This means that it will get worse over time. However, you can slow the progression of the disease and live a long and healthy life.