Type 2 diabetes

Type 2 diabetes test

Type 2 diabetes is a metabolic disorder that is characterised by high blood sugar, insulin resistance and a relative lack of insulin. Insulin is needed for the conversion of glucose into energy, and when someone has diabetes their blood glucose is increased. Type 2 accounts for approximately 85% of people with diabetes. Traditionally, it was viewed as a long-term, degenerative disorder, however, today there is evidence that it can be managed with the appropriate diet and activities or even go into remission.

Early signs of Type 2 diabetes

Type 2 diabetes takes many years to develop.  Many people get diagnosed without noticing any symptoms, however, some of the potential signs include:

  • Increased thirst
  • Increased hunger
  • Dry mouth
  • Frequent urination
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Fatigue
  • Blurred vision
  • Headaches

Reduce the risk of Type 2 diabetes

  • Eating a healthy balanced diet
  • Maintaining a healthy weight
  • Stopping smoking
  • Drinking alcohol in moderation
  • Taking plenty of regular exercise
  • Manage your blood pressure and cholesterol levels
  • Getting your blood glucose levels checked

Living with Type 2 diabetes

  • Eating a healthy diet eg: Mediterranean diet, low carbohydrate diet
  • Eat to your ‘meter’ – get a meter to see your blood glucose’s reaction to different food
  • Maintaining good physical and mental health
  • Preventing illness or accidents
  • Effectively dealing with minor ailments and long-term conditions such as foot problems and poor eyesight
  • Take appropriate medicines if necessary

Long term complications

Diabetes is a serious disease that is very important to treat. Long term complications of poorly managed diabetes can include:

  • Cardiovascular disease
  • Stroke
  • Kidney damage
  • Foot problems due to poor circulation
  • Retinopathy, leading to poor sight or blindness
  • Depression
  • Nerve damage
  • Poor circulation leading to limb amputation.

Activities

Useful links

Research & education