Type 2 diabetes is a chronic health condition that affects how the body regulates and uses sugar (glucose) as fuel. It is the most common form of diabetes, accounting for about 90% of all diabetes cases. It is mainly associated with high blood sugar levels above normal.
It occurs when the body becomes resistant to insulin or when the pancreas is unable to produce enough insulin to maintain normal glucose levels. Insulin is a hormone that helps glucose enter the body’s cells, where it is used for energy. In Type 2 diabetes, this process is disrupted, leading to elevated blood sugar levels, which over time can cause serious health complications, including heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, nerve damage, and vision loss.
Increased thirst and urine are common signs of Type 2 diabetes caused by high blood sugar levels, which can force the kidneys to work overtime to filter and absorb extra glucose. Excess glucose in the urine drains water from the body, leading to increased thirst and frequent urination.
Fatigue is commonly caused by the body’s cells not obtaining enough glucose due to insulin resistance or depletion, which inhibits the efficient conversion of glucose into energy.
Blurred vision can occur when high blood sugar levels cause the lens of the eye to expand, impairing the ability to focus properly.
Slow healing of cuts and wounds is associated with poor circulation and reduced immunological function, both of which are caused by prolonged high blood sugar levels.
Tingling or numbness in the hands and feet, known as neuropathy, is the result of nerve damage produced by elevated blood sugar levels over time, which can impair nerve function and feeling in these limbs.
These symptoms, when present together, are frequently suggestive of poorly controlled Type 2 diabetes and highlight the significance of maintaining blood sugar levels with proper lifestyle modifications, medications, and regular monitoring to avoid problems and enhance general health.
Insulin resistance. This occurs when the body’s cells do not properly respond to insulin, a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels. This resistance causes the pancreas to create more insulin to compensate, which can eventually lead to high blood sugar levels if the pancreas cannot keep up with demand.
Genetics plays an important part in Type 2 diabetes risk, since people with a family history of the condition are more likely to develop it. Genetic variables can alter insulin production, glucose metabolism, and obesity risk, all of which contribute to diabetes development.
Obesity is a key risk factor for Type 2 diabetes because excess fatty tissue, particularly in the abdomen, increases insulin resistance. Adipose tissue produces hormones and inflammatory chemicals that affect insulin signalling and glucose metabolism.
Physical inactivity. This promotes insulin resistance and weight gain, increasing the risk of Type 2 diabetes. Regular physical activity aids in weight management, insulin sensitivity, and total glucose utilisation by muscles.
Ageing is linked to a higher risk of Type 2 diabetes, which is caused in part by changes in hormone levels, decreased physical activity, and potential weight gain with time. Ageing also impairs the body’s ability to manufacture and use insulin effectively, increasing sensitivity to high blood sugar levels.
Comprehending these risk factors highlights the significance of lifestyle adjustments, such as maintaining a healthy weight, engaging in consistent physical exercise, and embracing a balanced diet, in mitigating the likelihood of Type 2 diabetes and enhancing general well-being.
The signs and symptoms of Type 2 diabetes are critical indicators that cause healthcare providers to conduct a series of diagnostic tests to confirm the presence of the disease and assess its complications.
These tests encompass various aspects of physiological function and include:
Blood Sugar Tests:
Random/Fasting Blood Sugar: Measures glucose levels in the blood after a period of fasting or at any time during the day.
Glucose Tolerance Test: Involves drinking a sugary solution and measuring blood sugar levels before and after to evaluate how well the body processes glucose.
Glycosylated Hemoglobin (HbA1c): Reflects average blood sugar levels over the past 2-3 months, providing a long-term indicator of glucose control.
Kidney Function Tests: Assess renal function through tests like serum creatinine, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), and urine albumin to creatinine ratio, as diabetes can lead to diabetic nephropathy (kidney disease).
Lipid profile:
Measures blood cholesterol and triglyceride levels, as diabetics are more likely to develop cardiovascular disease.
Urinalysis:
Examines urine for glucose, protein, and indicators of kidney diseases.
ECG and echocardiogram:
Assess heart function and structure, respectively, to detect potential cardiovascular complications associated with diabetes.
To detect probable diabetes-related cardiovascular problems, assess heart function and shape.
These tests are critical for diagnosing Type 2 diabetes, monitoring blood sugar levels, and detecting associated consequences such as renal disease, cardiovascular problems, and nerve damage. Early detection and regular monitoring assist in efficiently controlling the disease, minimising the risk of complications, and improving overall health outcomes for individuals with Type 2 diabetes.
Effective management of Type 2 diabetes revolves around two primary strategies: lifestyle changes and medications, aimed at preventing complications such as heart disease, stroke, kidney damage, nerve damage, and vision loss.
Lifestyle Changes:
Healthy Diet: Emphasizes balanced meals rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains while limiting sugar, saturated fats, and refined carbohydrates.
Regular Exercise: Incorporates aerobic activities (like brisk walking, swimming) and resistance training to improve insulin sensitivity and manage weight.
Weight Management: Achieves and maintains a healthy weight to reduce insulin resistance and lower blood sugar levels.
Medications:
Oral Hypoglycemics: Include medications that help control blood sugar levels by improving insulin sensitivity, reducing glucose production by the liver, or enhancing insulin secretion.
Insulin Therapy: May be necessary if oral medications are insufficient in controlling blood sugar levels, ensuring adequate insulin delivery to cells.
Complications:
Heart Disease: Due to elevated blood sugar levels contributing to atherosclerosis (hardening of arteries).
Stroke: Resulting from compromised blood flow to the brain due to vascular damage.
Kidney Damage: Diabetic nephropathy, leading to impaired kidney function and potentially kidney failure.
Nerve Damage: Peripheral neuropathy causing tingling, numbness, or pain in extremities.
Vision Loss: Diabetic retinopathy, damaging blood vessels in the retina leading to vision impairment or blindness.
By focusing on these strategies, individuals with Type 2 diabetes can effectively manage their condition, reduce the risk of complications, and improve their overall quality of life. Regular monitoring by healthcare professionals is essential to adjust treatment plans and ensure optimal health outcomes.