One of the most common chronic diseases and with the highest number affected people worldwide is Type 2 diabetes. It affects millions of people globally every year and is a disease that left unmanaged for even a small interval; of time can lead to serious complications and can be even fatal.
However, there are many ways Type 2 disease can be managed and the health com[plications and symptoms can be reduced. In this blog, we are going to discuss all about the basic yet necessary knowledge and management ways for type 2 diabetes.
What Is Type 2 Diabetes?
Type 2 diabetes is a chronic disease or condition that majorly affects the metabolism and utilization of glucose or sugar in the body of the person affected. Glucose metabolism is a crucial source of energy in a human body, but if a person is affected by type 2 diabetes, his pancreas stops releasing adequate amounts of insulin in his body.
Insulin is a hormone that plays a major role in glucose metabolism and helps sugar to enter the cells and get used for energy. The insulin resistance due to type 2 diabetes causes the person affected by it to have sugar build up in his bloodstream, which further leads to high blood sugar levels. This condition if left untreated and unmanaged leads to various organ damage and systems in the body.
What Causes Type 2 Diabetes?
The single and major cause of type 2 disease is still there to be discovered, however, researchers and doctors do find the factors that can increase the risk of a person getting affected by the disease or the disease to get worse.
Insulin Resistance
Most people with type 2 diabetes start out with insulin resistance. This means the muscle, liver, and fat cells don’t respond well to insulin and can’t use glucose from the blood for energy efficiently. The pancreas then produces more insulin to help glucose enter the cells, but eventually, it can’t keep up.
Genetics
A family history of diabetes can increase your risk. If you have a parent or sibling with type 2 diabetes, you’re more likely to develop it yourself.
Obesity and Inactivity
Being overweight, especially carrying extra fat around the abdomen is a major risk factor. Physical inactivity also contributes, as exercise helps your body use insulin more effectively.
Age
While it can develop at any age, the risk of type 2 diabetes increases significantly after age 45.
Ethnicity
People of African American, Hispanic, Native American, and Asian descent are at higher risk.
Other Conditions
Conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), high blood pressure, and high cholesterol levels can also increase risk.
Common Symptoms of Type 2 Diabetes
Increased thirst and frequent urination
High blood sugar pulls fluid from tissues, making you thirstier and causing you to urinate more.
Increased hunger
Without enough insulin to help glucose enter your cells, your muscles and organs become energy-deprived, triggering intense hunger.
Fatigue
When your cells lack sugar, you may feel tired and sluggish.
Blurred vision
High blood sugar can pull fluid from the lenses of your eyes, affecting your ability to focus.
Slow-healing sores or frequent infections
Diabetes affects your body’s ability to heal and fight off infection.
Darkened skin patches
Known as acanthosis nigricans, this symptom is often found around the neck or armpits and can be a sign of insulin resistance.
How Is Type 2 Diabetes Diagnosed?
Diagnosis usually involves one or more of the following blood tests:
- Fasting Blood Sugar Test – Measures your blood sugar after an overnight fast.
- A1C Test – Shows your average blood sugar over the past 2-3 months.
- Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT) – Measures blood sugar before and after drinking a sweet liquid.
- Random Blood Sugar Test – Can be done anytime regardless of when you last ate.
Treatment & Type 2 Diabetes Management
Type 2 diabetes can be managed and in some cases, reversed, through a combination of lifestyle changes, medication, and regular monitoring.
Healthy Diet
Add a generous amount of whole grains, vegetables, lean proteins, healthy fats and low glycemic food in your diet. Also, avoid sugary drinks and snacks, refined carbs and highly processed foods.
Regular Exercise
Physical activity helps lower blood sugar levels and increases insulin sensitivity. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate activity (like walking, swimming, or cycling) five days a week.
Weight Management
Even losing 5–10% of your body weight can significantly improve blood sugar control.
Medications
Some people may need medication to help their body use insulin more effectively or to boost insulin production. Common types include:
- Metformin (often first-line treatment)
- Sulfonylureas
- SGLT2 inhibitors
- DPP-4 inhibitors
- GLP-1 receptor agonists
- Insulin therapy (in some cases)
Your doctor will determine the best option based on your health status.
Blood Sugar Monitoring
Keeping track of your blood glucose levels helps you understand what affects your readings. Some people use glucose meters, while others may opt for continuous glucose monitors (CGMs).
Stress Management & Sleep
Chronic stress and poor sleep can increase blood sugar levels. Techniques like meditation, yoga, and good sleep hygiene can help.
