Living with type 2 diabetes: what to know

Type 2 diabetes develops when the body does not respond to insulin effectively and, over time, may not make enough insulin. Glucose can then remain in the bloodstream instead of moving into cells for energy. Day-to-day control is personal: it may include food choices, regular movement, prescribed medicine, and glucose checks when your clinician recommends them.

Ongoing high glucose can quietly affect blood vessels and nerves. Foot problems, kidney disease, vision changes, and cardiovascular problems deserve attention even when you feel well. Low glucose can also occur with some medicines, especially when meals are delayed or activity changes.

Take medicines as prescribed and keep a record of glucose readings, meals, activity, and symptoms when asked. Choose regular balanced meals, drink water, and build movement into your routine at a level that is safe for you. Check your feet for blisters, cuts, colour changes, or areas that feel different; avoid walking barefoot if sensation is reduced.

Keep appointments for blood tests, blood pressure checks, kidney monitoring, eye reviews, and foot assessments. Do not stop a medicine because a reading improves without discussing the change. Learn the signs of hypoglycaemia, including sweating, trembling, hunger, dizziness, irritability, and confusion; ask your care team for an individual action plan.

Seek urgent help for severe confusion, fainting, a seizure, chest pressure, sudden weakness on one side, trouble speaking, or severe breathlessness. Prompt medical advice is also needed for a foot wound that is red, swollen, painful, draining, or slow to heal, because cellulitis and reduced circulation can complicate healing.

Contact your clinician when readings repeatedly sit outside your agreed range, vomiting prevents you from keeping fluids down, or you have new numbness, vision changes, or swelling. A sudden change in your usual health should not be explained away as diabetes without assessment.

Ask: What glucose range is right for me? How should I adjust meals, activity, or medicine when I am unwell? Which checks do I need for my kidneys, eyes, feet, and cardiovascular health? What should I do if I miss a dose or have symptoms of low glucose?