Type 2 Diabetes
July 17, 2024
Type 2 Diabetes
Type 2 diabetes is the most common type of diabetes. It is a chronic health condition which impacts how your body turns food into energy. Type 2 diabetes is when your blood glucose (sugar) is too high. Typically the food you consume is broken down into sugar which enters your bloodstream. The sugar in your bloodstream signals to your pancreas to create insulin to help transport that sugar in your bloodstream to your cells to provide them energy. With Type 2 diabetes, your body either doesn’t make enough insulin or doesn’t use insulin well. Therefore the sugar stays in your bloodstream too long.
What are the symptoms of type 2 diabetes?
Symptoms of diabetes include
- increased thirst and urination
- increased hunger
- feeling tired
- blurred vision
- numbness or tingling in the feet or hands
- sores that do not heal
- unexplained weight loss
What are the health implications of Type 2 diabetes?
- heart disease and stroke
- nerve damage
- kidney disease
- foot problems
- eye disease
- gum disease and other dental problems
- sexual and bladder problems
Who is at risk for type 2 diabetes?
Type 2 diabetes can be diagnosed at any age but it is most common among those 45 years old or older. Other risk factors include a family history of diabetes, those overweight or obese, high blood pressure, and prediabetes or gestational diabetes. Diabetes is also more common in people who are African American, Hispanic/Latino, American Indian, Asian American, or Pacific Islander.
Below you can find some ways to lower your risk of developing type 2 diabetes
For more information about type 2 diabetes go to the National Institute if Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.