Type 2 Diabetes?

What is Type 2 Diabetes?

Type 2 diabetes is a chronic metabolic disorder where the body either becomes resistant to insulin or doesn't produce enough of it. Insulin is a hormone that regulates blood sugar, and without its proper function, glucose builds up in the bloodstream. Unlike Type 1 diabetes, which typically appears early in life, Type 2 usually develops in adults but is increasingly seen in younger people due to rising obesity and sedentary lifestyles. It often develops gradually and may go unnoticed for years. If left unmanaged, Type 2 diabetes can lead to serious complications, including heart disease, nerve damage, kidney failure, and vision problems. While genetics play a role, lifestyle factors such as diet, activity level, and weight significantly impact the risk and progression of the disease. Fortunately, it is largely preventable and manageable through healthy habits and medical treatment.

Symptoms and Causes

Common Symptoms:

  • Frequent urination, especially at night
  • Excessive thirst and dry mouth
  • Increased hunger, even after eating
  • Fatigue and low energy
  • Blurred vision
  • Slow-healing wounds or frequent infections
  • Numbness or tingling in hands and feet
  • Darkened skin patches, especially around the neck or armpits (acanthosis nigricans)

Causes:

Type 2 diabetes is caused by a combination of insulin resistance and impaired insulin production. Over time, the pancreas can't keep up with the body's insulin demands. Key contributing factors include:

  • Obesity, especially around the abdomen
  • Sedentary lifestyle
  • Unhealthy diet high in processed carbs and sugars
  • Family history of diabetes
  • Ageing, which naturally reduces insulin sensitivity
  • Hormonal imbalances or metabolic syndromes

Risk Factors

Several factors increase the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, including:

  • Overweight or Obesity: Particularly central (belly) fat increases insulin resistance.
  • Age over 45: Risk rises as people age, though younger people are now increasingly affected.
  • Family History: Having a parent or sibling with diabetes raises risk.
  • Sedentary Lifestyle: Physical inactivity reduces insulin sensitivity.
  • Poor Diet: Diets high in sugar, unhealthy fats, and refined carbs contribute significantly.
  • High Blood Pressure or Cholesterol: These conditions often occur alongside diabetes.
  • Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): Women with PCOS are at a higher risk.
  • Gestational Diabetes: Women who had diabetes during pregnancy are more prone to develop Type 2 diabetes later.
  • Ethnicity: Higher risk is seen in South Asian, African, Hispanic, and Indigenous populations.

Diagnosis & Treatment

Diagnosis:

  • Fasting Blood Sugar Test: Measures glucose levels after an overnight fast.
  • HbA1c Test: Assesses average blood sugar levels over the past 2–3 months.
  • Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT): Checks how your body processes sugar after drinking a glucose solution.
  • Random Blood Sugar Test: A non-fasting test often used in screening.

Treatment:

  • Lifestyle Modifications: A healthy diet, regular physical activity (30–60 minutes daily), and weight loss are foundational.
  • Oral Medications: Metformin is typically the first-line drug; others include sulfonylureas, DPP-4 inhibitors, or SGLT2 inhibitors.
  • Injectables: GLP-1 receptor agonists or insulin may be prescribed if oral meds aren’t enough.
  • Regular Monitoring: Blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol should be tracked regularly.
  • Education and Counseling: Diabetes self-management education is crucial for long-term success.

Care Tips

  • Eat Balanced Meals: Prioritize fiber-rich whole grains, lean proteins, vegetables, and healthy fats.
  • Stay Active: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise weekly.
  • Monitor Blood Sugar: Keep track of your levels regularly and note trends.
  • Take Medications as Directed: Never skip doses; discuss side effects with your doctor.
  • Get Regular Checkups: Annual eye exams, foot checks, and lab work are essential.
  • Foot Care: Keep feet clean, inspect for wounds, and wear proper footwear.
  • Manage Stress: Practice yoga, meditation, or other relaxation techniques to keep stress—and blood sugar—in check.
  • Stay Hydrated: Water supports metabolism and helps flush excess sugar from the blood.

Prevention Tips

Preventing or delaying Type 2 diabetes is possible, especially for people at high risk. Key strategies include:

  • Healthy Weight: Losing even 5–10% of your body weight can significantly reduce risk.
  • Regular Exercise: Aim for 30 minutes of walking, biking, or resistance training most days.
  • Nutritious Diet: Choose whole foods, limit added sugars, and avoid processed snacks.
  • Limit Sugary Drinks: Opt for water, unsweetened tea, or black coffee instead.
  • Quit Smoking: Smoking increases the risk of diabetes and heart complications.
  • Routine Screenings: Get your blood sugar tested regularly, especially if you have a family history or are overweight.
  • Sleep Hygiene: Aim for 7–8 hours of restful sleep per night, as poor sleep can increase insulin resistance.
  • Stay Informed: Attend health checkups and diabetes prevention programs if available.