The most common form of diabetes is Type 2, also known as non-insulin dependent diabetes. Of the more than 21 million people who have diabetes, this affects between 90% and 95% of them. Unlike those who have Type 1 diabetes, those who have Type 2 are able to produce insulin. However, the pancreas does not produce enough of the hormone, or the body is unable to use the insulin properly. When the body is unable to handle the glucose, it is unable to deliver it to the cells in the body. Instead, they go into the blood, and this causes the body's cells to malfunction.
Symptoms of Type 2 Diabetes
You will find other symptoms that happen when the body is not producing and using insulin properly. The buildup of the sugars in the blood can cause dehydration and increased urine output. Diabetic coma, when the patient is unable to regain enough fluids, is possible as well. This can turn into a life threatening condition. The high levels of glucose in the blood stream can cause damage to the nerves as well as to the blood vessels in the eyes, the heart and the kidneys. Heart attack and stroke are all possible as well due to the damage suffered by the body.
In addition to the increased thirst and the dry mouth that often accompanies Type 2 diabetics, people can also experience increased hunger, often right after eating. Nausea and vomiting, blurred vision, infections and fatigue are common as well. Many also report numbness or tingling in the hands and the feet.
Who is at Risk?
Anyone may have Type 2 diabetes, but the people who are most at risk include those who are overweight, those who have had family members with the disease, those with high blood pressure, elderly people, and those with metabolic syndrome. If you smoke, don't exercise and eat foods that are bad for you, you are increasing your risk of getting Type 2 diabetes. It is difficult to determine a root cause for this type of diabetes simply because so many different factors can play a part. However, by adopting a healthier lifestyle, getting more exercise and eating fresh vegetables and healthy food, you can lower your risk of getting the disease.
The Diagnosis
You will not be able to determine if you have Type 2 diabetes on your own. You are going to need to visit your doctor, and he or she will run blood tests to look for anomalies. The doctor may also look for glucose or ketone in your urine, as this can indicate diabetes.
Treatment for Type 2 Diabetes
While there is no cure for diabetes now, great strides are made in the treatment of the disease each year. In addition to supplementing your life with medicine such as insulin, you will be able to make some lifestyle changes that can make the disease easier to control. Talk with your doctor about the different treatment options that might be right for you.
