Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus is basically the real name for type 2 diabetes.
Type 2 diabetes mellitus is a chronic condition in which the body either does not produce enough insulin or does not use insulin effectively, leading to high blood sugar levels. Insulin is produced by the pancreas to help regulate blood sugar levels. In type 2 diabetes, the body may become resistant to insulin or may not produce enough insulin to meet the body’s needs.
Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes, accounting for about 90-95% of all cases of diabetes. It typically develops slowly over time and may not cause symptoms in the early stages. However, as blood sugar levels continue to rise, symptoms may develop, including:
Increased thirst and urination : High blood sugar levels can cause the kidneys to work harder to filter the excess glucose out of the bloodstream, leading to increased urination. This can cause dehydration, leading to increased thirst.
Fatigue: High blood sugar levels can interfere with the body’s ability to use glucose for energy, leading to feelings of fatigue and weakness.
Blurred vision: High blood sugar levels can cause fluid to be pulled from the lenses of the eyes, leading to blurry vision.
Slow healing of cuts or wounds: High blood sugar levels can interfere with the body’s ability to heal, leading to slow healing of cuts or wounds.
Numbness or tingling in the hands or feet: High blood sugar levels can damage the nerves in the body, leading to numbness or tingling in the hands or feet.
Recurrent infections, such as yeast infections or urinary tract infections: High blood sugar levels can weaken the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight off infections.
It’s important to note that not everyone with type 2 diabetes will experience symptoms, and some people may not be diagnosed until they develop complications of the condition. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to speak with a healthcare provider to determine if you have type 2 diabetes or another health condition.
There are several risk factors that can increase a person’s likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes mellitus. Some of the most common risk factors include:
Age: The risk of developing type 2 diabetes increases as a person gets older, especially after the age of 45.
Family history: Having a parent or sibling with type 2 diabetes increases a person’s risk of developing the condition.
Obesity or overweight: Being overweight or obese is a major risk factor for type 2 diabetes, especially when excess weight is carried around the abdomen.
Physical inactivity: Lack of physical activity or exercise can increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
High blood pressure: Having high blood pressure or taking medication to treat high blood pressure can increase the risk of type 2 diabetes.
Abnormal cholesterol and triglyceride levels: High levels of LDL cholesterol, low levels of HDL cholesterol, and high levels of triglycerides can increase the risk of type 2 diabetes.
Gestational diabetes: Women who have had gestational diabetes (diabetes during pregnancy) have an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life.
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): Women with PCOS have an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Sleep apnea: People with sleep apnea have an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Smoking: Smoking can increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, as well as other health problems.
Ethnicity: People of certain ethnicities, such as African Americans, Hispanic/Latinos, Native Americans, and Asian Americans, have a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
It’s important to note that having one or more of these risk factors does not necessarily mean that a person will develop type 2 diabetes. However, knowing your risk factors and taking steps to manage them can help reduce your risk of developing the condition.
Type 2 diabetes mellitus can be managed with a combination of medications, lifestyle changes, and regular monitoring of blood sugar levels.
Medications:
There are several types of medications that may be used to treat type 2 diabetes, including:
Metformin: This is the medication most often used as the first treatment for type 2 diabetes. It reduces the amount of glucose produced by the liver and improves the body’s sensitivity to insulin.
Sulfonylureas: These medications stimulate the pancreas to produce more insulin.
DPP-4 inhibitors: These medications help to increase insulin production and reduce the amount of glucose produced by the liver.
GLP-1 receptor agonists: These medications mimic the action of a hormone called GLP-1, which helps to increase insulin production and reduce the amount of glucose produced by the liver.
Insulin: In some cases, insulin therapy may be needed to help regulate blood sugar levels.
Lifestyle changes:
In addition to medication, lifestyle changes can also help manage type 2 diabetes. Some lifestyle changes that may be recommended include:
Eating a healthy diet: A healthy diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats can help regulate blood sugar levels.
Regular exercise: Regular exercise can help improve insulin sensitivity and regulate blood sugar levels.
Managing stress: Chronic stress can increase blood sugar levels, so finding healthy ways to manage stress, such as through exercise or meditation, can help regulate blood sugar levels.
Quitting smoking: Smoking can increase the risk of complications from type 2 diabetes, so quitting smoking can help manage the condition.
Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels:
Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels is an important part of managing type 2 diabetes. This can be done through regular blood sugar testing at home or through regular visits to a healthcare provider. Monitoring blood sugar levels can help identify trends and patterns in blood sugar levels, which can help guide treatment decisions.
It’s important to work closely with a healthcare provider to develop a treatment plan that is tailored to your individual needs. With proper management, people with type 2 diabetes can live long, healthy lives.
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