What Is Type 2 Diabetes?
Type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition that affects the way your body metabolizes sugar (glucose), your body’s important source of fuel.
With Type 2 diabetes, your body either resists the effects of insulin — a hormone that regulates the movement of sugar into your cells — or doesn’t produce enough insulin to maintain a normal glucose level. Very often, people with type 2 diabetes will have no symptoms.
Symptoms of Type 2 Diabetes:
- Increased thirst
- Increased hunger (especially after eating)
- Dry mouth
- Nausea and sometimes vomiting
- Increased urination
- Fatigue (weak, tired feeling)
- Blurred vision
- Numbness or tingling of the hands or feet
- Frequent infections of the skin, urinary tract, or vagina
- Sores that are slow to heal
Your blood sugar can rise or fall for many reasons including:
- Eating too much or too little
- Taking or missing your medicine
- Being more active
- Getting sick
Diabetes cannot be cured, but your treatment plan can help keep your blood sugar on track and prevent complications. You’ll need insulin if your pancreas cannot make it or make enough. You cannot take insulin by mouth because normal digestion interferes with how it works. You have to inject it with a syringe and needle, pen or pump. There are fast and long-acting options. Your physician will recommend the best type for you.
Physical activity is another key part of your diabetes care plan. When you’re adding physical activity to your routine, it’s okay to take your time. If you haven’t been active, start with 5 to 10 minutes a day and increase your activity a few minutes each week until you reach your goals. Your doctor can help you create a physical activity plan that’s right for you and help make sure your plan is safe.
