Reasons for type 2 diabetes

Insulin helps glucose move from the bloodstream into cells for energy. In type 2 diabetes, cells respond less effectively to insulin, so the pancreas works harder. Over time, insulin production may not meet the body's needs. Family history, excess body weight, low activity, sleep disruption, age, and previous prediabetes can all influence risk; no single factor explains every diagnosis.

High glucose may cause thirst, frequent urination, blurred vision, tiredness, or slow-healing cuts, but some people notice no symptoms. Persistent high glucose can damage blood vessels and nerves, affecting the kidneys, feet, eyes, heart, and brain. Peripheral neuropathy and peripheral arterial disease are examples of complications that need attention.

A clinician can confirm the diagnosis, review blood-glucose results, blood pressure, medicines, kidney function, eyes, and feet, then agree on a care plan. Regular movement, balanced meals, adequate sleep, and stopping smoking can support glucose control. Take prescribed treatment as directed and learn how to recognise low glucose if your medicines can cause hypoglycaemia. Prediabetes is an earlier state that can sometimes be improved with targeted changes.

Seek urgent help for confusion, collapse, severe weakness, repeated vomiting, deep or rapid breathing, or inability to keep fluids down. Contact your care team promptly for a foot wound, spreading redness or warmth, new numbness, sudden vision change, or symptoms of a stroke such as facial drooping, arm weakness, or speech difficulty.

Ask what your glucose target is, how often to check it, which medicines may cause low glucose, and when your kidney, eye, foot, and cardiovascular checks are due.