Type 2 diabetes is a disease that occurs when blood glucose or blood sugar levels are abnormally high. It is the most common type of diabetes affecting approximately 29 million people living in the United States.
Type 2 diabetes impairs cells in the body from properly using insulin-a hormone produced by the pancreas that aids in regulating blood glucose levels. This impairment can lead to other serious health problems such as vision loss, kidney, or heart disease.
Symptoms of Type 2 diabetes may take years to present. It is common for individuals to have the disease and not know that they have it. Symptoms may include frequent urination, increased thirst, increased hunger, blurred vision, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, tingling or numbness in the hands and feet, as well as slow-healing wounds.
There is no cure for Type 2 diabetes; however, the disease can be managed successfully with medications. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), “…your doctor may prescribe insulin, other injectable medications, or oral diabetes medicines to help manage your blood sugar and avoid complications.”
Lifestyle habits such as eating a healthy diet, exercising, and consistently monitoring blood glucose levels are also beneficial in managing your diabetes.
All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.