Overview

Diabetes is a chronic metabolic disorder characterised by high blood sugar levels over a prolonged period. Type 2 diabetes, the most common form, occurs when the body's cells become insulin-resistant, leading to inadequate insulin utilisation. This results in elevated blood glucose levels. Risk factors include genetics, obesity, and an inactive lifestyle. Unlike Type 1 diabetes, which is often diagnosed in childhood and requires insulin therapy, Type 2 diabetes can sometimes be managed with lifestyle changes, medications, or insulin, if necessary.

In simple words, diabetes is a health disorder caused by the improper usage of sugar, also known as glucose, as a fuel by the body; when sugar levels are higher than the healthy level in the body, it becomes harmful to the individual. High sugar or diabetes hampers the functioning of circulatory, nervous, and immune systems.

Type 2 diabetes is an issue in which the pancreas is able to produce enough amount of insulin, but the body is unable to process the insulin produced. This leads to an increase in glucose levels in the blood.

Causes of Type 2 Diabetes

- Obesity- One of the biggest causes of diabetes is obesity. The excess layer of fat around the belly makes the situation more challenging and indicates an unhealthy lifestyle for an individual immediately. Obesity also indicates high sugar levels and high consumption of junk food levels, causing disturbance of the working of insulin.
- Hence, obese people are at a higher risk of getting affected by diabetes. If the situation is left untreated for a longer time and the unhealthy practices are continued for a longer time, one may also experience worse situations.
- Inactive Lifestyle- A lifestyle without any activity and full of lethargy is also one of the major causes of the form of diabetes. People who do not have any form of physical activity in their whole day or who do not prefer to exercise are at a higher risk of getting affected by the disorder. Hence, practising any form of physical activity for at least 15 to 20 minutes is essential to stay at bay from diabetes and other disorders.
- Insulin Resistance- When the cells do not respond to insulin and sugar accumulates, it leads to a spike in sugar levels. Hence, one starts developing the symptoms of sugar, leading to different other health problems if left untreated for a long time.
- Unhealthy Diet- Diets high in sugar, refined carbohydrates, and unhealthy fats can increase the risk.
- Age- Risk increases with age, especially after 45.
- High Blood Pressure- Hypertension is often associated with Type 2 diabetes.
- Gestational Diabetes- Women who had gestational diabetes during pregnancy are at higher risk.
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)- Women with PCOS have a higher likelihood of developing Type 2 diabetes.

Symptoms of Type 2 Diabetes

- Blurry Vision- One of the prime and identifiable symptoms of diabetes involves blurry vision. The individual needs a clear vision, making it difficult to perform daily chores with ease. High sugar levels damage the eye blood vessels and also the shape of the lens. Hence, in case of sudden blurry vision and difficulty, the doctor should consult the doctor to know the root cause and proper treatment.
- Fatigue- Another observed symptom of type 2 mellitus is fatigue. The affected individual feels a lack of energy while waking up in the morning or while performing daily routine activities. The individual must also be more active to perform any tedious physical activity. Hence, in case of such symptoms, it is advised to get a complete, in-depth medical check-up to get proper and timely treatment.
- Increased Urinary Frequency- People suffering from this form of diabetes also have an increased urge to urinate. The condition is usually observed during nighttime, making it difficult for the affected to sleep peacefully.
- Weight Loss- People who have diabetes also experience sudden weight loss due to the burning of muscle and fat for energy. When the condition happens, the individual experiences loss of weight along with loss of energy to perform daily chores.
- Hunger Pangs- Another observed symptom of diabetes is food craving. The affected individual may suddenly urge to eat something, especially sweet, as the body needs it for proper functioning. In case of such signs, one must get the sugar levels checked to have a proper track of the sugar disorder.

Treatment of Type 2 Diabetes

Mentioned below are a few options that can help to manage type 2 diabetes:

- Lower sugar intake
- Use refined sugar replacements
- Perform any form of physical activity for at least 15 to 20 minutes
- A healthy meal full of lean protein, less carbohydrates, and no starchy vegetables should be consumed

When to Consult a Doctor

You can also get in touch with the expert Endocrinology doctors at Narayana Healthcare based in your city to get immediate attention and medical support during injuries, health disorders or any other health concern.

Conclusion

Type 2 diabetes is a health issue that is observed due to unmanaged sugar levels in the body. The issue leads to different health problems, such as lethargy, an inactive lifestyle, and a slow wound-healing process. The issue can be treated with the help of healthy practices and medication in case of unmanageable symptoms.