Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how your body uses insulin and regulates blood sugar.
It is the most common form of diabetes and often develops gradually, influenced by genetics, lifestyle, and metabolic health.

This section provides clear, practical information to help you understand type 2 diabetes, manage it effectively, and reduce the risk of complications.

What Is Type 2 Diabetes?

Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn’t produce enough insulin to maintain healthy blood sugar levels. Over time, high blood sugar can damage blood vessels, nerves, and vital organs.

Unlike type 1 diabetes, type 2 diabetes is not autoimmune and is often diagnosed in adulthood, though it is increasingly seen in younger people.

Common Causes and Risk Factors

Several factors increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, including:

• Family history of diabetes
• Excess body weight, especially around the abdomen
• Physical inactivity
• Insulin resistance
• Age, ethnicity, and hormonal changes

Many people live with insulin resistance for years before diagnosis.

Symptoms of Type 2 Diabetes

Symptoms may develop slowly and can be easy to miss. Common signs include:

• Increased thirst and frequent urination
• Fatigue
• Blurred vision
• Slow-healing wounds
• Tingling or numbness in hands and feet

Some people have no noticeable symptoms and are diagnosed through routine blood tests.

How Type 2 Diabetes Is Diagnosed

Diagnosis typically involves one or more blood tests, such as:

• A1C test
• Fasting blood glucose
• Oral glucose tolerance test

Early diagnosis allows for better long-term outcomes and reduced risk of complications.

Managing Type 2 Diabetes

Managing type 2 diabetes usually involves a combination of:

• Balanced nutrition and portion control
• Regular physical activity
• Weight management
• Blood sugar monitoring
• Medication or insulin when needed

Many people successfully manage type 2 diabetes through lifestyle changes, especially in the early stages.

Medications for Type 2 Diabetes

When lifestyle changes aren’t enough, medication may be prescribed. Common options include:

• Metformin
• GLP-1 receptor agonists
• SGLT2 inhibitors
• Insulin (in later stages)

Medication plans are personalized and may change over time.

Complications Associated With Type 2 Diabetes

Long-term high blood sugar can increase the risk of:

• Heart disease and stroke
• Nerve damage (neuropathy)
• Kidney disease
• Eye problems
• Foot complications

Preventive care and consistent management significantly reduce these risks.

Living Well With Type 2 Diabetes

Living with type 2 diabetes is about more than numbers. Mental health, sleep, stress management, and social support all play an important role.

With the right information and care plan, many people live full, active lives with type 2 diabetes.