General Description of Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is a condition that affects the metabolizing of sugar in the body. Patients with this condition become resistant to the effects of insulin. Glucose does not move properly into the cells of the body.

Symptoms

• According to the Mayo Clinic, type 2 diabetes patients may experience increased hunger, increased thirst and frequent urination. Blurred vision, weight loss and fatigue can occurred.

Risk Factors

• People with excess body weight, a sedentary lifestyle and a family history of type 2 diabetes are at an increased risk of developing this condition.

Complications

• Heart disease, nerve damage and kidney damage are common complications of type 2 diabetes.

Tests

• The glycated hemoglobin test and other blood tests measure levels of blood sugar and are used to diagnose type 2 diabetes.

Treatment

• Many type 2 diabetes patients can manage their condition with blood sugar monitoring, a healthy diet and regular exercise. Some patients will need to use diabetes medications and insulin therapy.