About Type 2 Diabetes

What is Type 2 Diabetes?

Much more common is type 2 diabetes. People with type 2 diabetes can only make some insulin and the cells in their bodies don’t respond to insulin any more. Type 2 diabetes usually develops later in life, but it can affect all ages – even children. People of every race can get type 2 diabetes. African Americans, Hispanics, and American Indians are more likely to have the disease than Caucasian Americans.

Signs & Symptoms

People with type 2 diabetes may have symptoms like those caused by type 1 diabetes. But symptoms can also be mild. Many people with type 2 diabetes don’t realize they have a problem until the disease has taken root. Prevention is a major component to detouring diabetes; however, it is also important to recognize the signs and symptoms of the disease. If you think you may have diabetes or exhibit the symptoms of diabetes, please visit your doctor to be tested for diabetes. hide

Treatment

Type 2 diabetes, which is usually present in adulthood, but is being seen more and more in children, is caused by resistance to the action of insulin. If physical activity and proper nutrition do not adequately control the blood sugar (good control is a fasting blood sugar less than 110 or an after meal blood sugar less than 140), then medication is needed. The type of medicine used depends on what is causing the diabetes. Medications used either increase the production of insulin from the pancreas or make the body more sensitive to insulin. hide

Prevention

Implementing physical activity into your daily routine can help prevent or delay type 2 diabetes among adults at high-risk of diabetes. Developing a lifestyle that incorporates healthy eating and nutrition choices can also help prevent type 2 diabetes. hide

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