Contents
Type 2 Diabetes: What You Need to Know About This Growing Epidemic
Published: Sep 14, 2023
Type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition affecting millions worldwide. It occurs when your body can't properly use insulin, leading to high blood sugar levels.
What Causes Type 2 Diabetes?
Type 2 diabetes develops due to a combination of genetic and lifestyle factors. Being overweight, inactive, and eating an unhealthy diet increase your risk. As the condition progresses, your body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn't produce enough of it.
Recognizing the Symptoms
Common symptoms include increased thirst, frequent urination, blurred vision, and fatigue. However, many people with type 2 diabetes don't experience noticeable symptoms early on. That's why regular check-ups and screenings are important, especially if you have risk factors.
Complications of Uncontrolled Diabetes
If left untreated, type 2 diabetes can lead to serious health problems. These may include heart disease, kidney damage, nerve damage, and vision problems. Maintaining good blood sugar control is key to preventing these complications.
Treatment Options
Treatment for type 2 diabetes typically involves lifestyle changes, medication, and blood sugar monitoring. Your doctor may recommend diet modifications, increased physical activity, and drugs like metformin. In some cases, insulin therapy may be necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
While not curable, it can be managed effectively with proper treatment.
Healthy lifestyle choices can significantly reduce your risk.
Frequency varies, but your doctor will provide a personalized plan.
With good management, many people live long, healthy lives.
Yes, stress can cause blood sugar fluctuations.
Taking Control
While type 2 diabetes is a serious condition, with proper management and support, you can lead a healthy, fulfilling life.
References
- American Diabetes Association. Standards of Medical Care in Diabetes-2021. Diabetes Care. 2021;44(Suppl 1):S1-S232.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. National Diabetes Statistics Report, 2020. Atlanta, GA: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, U.S. Dept of Health and Human Services; 2020.
- World Health Organization. Global Report on Diabetes. Geneva: World Health Organization; 2016.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
AI Doctor Visit Required
Appointments available 24/7
Top licensed doctors
Available in all 50 states
Full service care
Prescriptions, referrals & treatment
No insurance needed
All notes available in Doctronic
15-min consultation. No hidden costs.
AI Doctor Visit Required
Please Chat With Our AI Doctor First
Our AI doctor assessment helps our human doctors prepare for your video visit and provide better care
For safety reasons we have been forced to end this consultation.
If you believe this is a medical emergency please call 911 or your local emergency services immediately.
If you are experiencing emotional distress, please call the the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or your local crisis services immediately.
Contact us
You can also email us at help@doctronic.ai
We aim to reply within 5-7 days
How likely are you to recommend Doctronic to friends or family?