What is diabetes two?

Type 2 diabetes is a chronic disease that affects how your body turns food into energy. With type 2 diabetes, your body doesn't make enough insulin or doesn't use insulin well. Glucose, or sugar, builds up in your blood instead of being used for energy.

Risk factors for type 2 diabetes include:

* Being overweight or obese.

* Having a family history of diabetes.

* Being physically inactive.

* Having high blood pressure.

* Having high cholesterol.

* Having a history of gestational diabetes.

* Being African American, Hispanic/Latino, American Indian, Asian American, or Pacific Islander.

Symptoms of type 2 diabetes can include:

* Feeling very thirsty.

* Needing to urinate often.

* Feeling very hungry.

* Feeling very tired.

* Losing weight without trying.

* Blurry vision.

* Tingling or numbness in your hands or feet.

* Slow-healing sores.

* Frequent infections.

Type 2 diabetes can be treated with:

* Healthy eating.

* Physical activity.

* Medication.

If you have diabetes, it's important to keep it under control to prevent serious complications, such as:

* Heart disease.

* Stroke.

* Kidney disease.

* Blindness.

* Nerve damage.

* Amputation.

You can help prevent type 2 diabetes by:

* Eating a healthy diet.

* Getting regular physical activity.

* Maintaining a healthy weight.

* Quitting smoking.

* Reducing stress.

If you have any of the symptoms of diabetes, see your doctor right away. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent serious complications.