What Does It Mean to Be Diagnosed With Type 2 Diabetes?
Type 2 Diabetes is a disease that has become more and more prevalent in today’s society. Understanding exactly what Type 2 Diabetes is, and what steps to take to keep it under control, will go a long way towards helping patients successfully manage their health.
Type 2 Diabetes Definition
By definition, the diagnosis of Type 2 Diabetes is determined when the pancreas is not capable of manufacturing the necessary amounts of insulin needed to properly regulate and maintain correct levels of glucose (also known as “blood sugar”) in their blood, or the body isn’t able to use the available insulin effectively. When a person has been diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes, they are referred to as being “Hyperglycemic” or “Insulin Resistant“. Type 2 Diabetes is the most common form of this disease.
Type 2 Diabetes Causes
A person is considered to be at risk of developing Type 2 Diabetes if any of the following applies:
- If a person is over the age of 40.
- They have an immediate family member, such as a parent or sibling, that has diabetes.
- They are overweight.
- They are from an African American, Asian, Black Caribbean or Chinese ethnic background.
Type 2 Diabetes Symptoms
If you or someone know experiences the following symptoms, discuss them with a physician.
- Wounds that take a long time to heal
- Excessive tiredness or fatigue
- Frequent urination not associated with fluid intake
- Changes in vision, such as increased blurriness
- Persistent thirst or unsatisfied hunger
- Experiencing episodes of tingling or numbness in the hands or feet
- Episodes of fainting
- Complaints of dry mouth
- Weight loss not related to diet or exercise
What Kinds of Type 2 Diabetes Treatments Are Available?
Diabetes can be managed with proper treatment. Treatment options include:
- Maintaining a healthy weight. Obesity can severely increase the risk of developing Diabetes.
- Adhering to a healthy diet that contains fewer carbs, simple sugars and fats, and increased amounts of vegetables, whole grains, and fruits. Be mindful that some fruits contain high amounts of sugars.
- Daily monitoring of blood glucose levels.
- If prescribed by a doctor, take medications to help regulate blood glucose and insulin levels.
Is There a Type 2 Diabetes Cure?
While there is currently no cure for Type 2 Diabetes, carefully following a healthy diet, maintaining a healthy weight, increasing the amount of daily exercise, and consistently checking daily blood glucose levels are all important and effective steps to take to help ensure that the body has the tools it needs to function successfully.
Being diagnosed with Diabetes can be scary. It is important to remember that with proper treatment, faithfully following a doctor’s treatment plan, and if needed, taking any recommended medications, a person that has been diagnosed with diabetes can live a long and productive life.