What is type 2 diabetes also known as?

The older name reflects that type 2 diabetes was often diagnosed in adulthood. It is less precise because children and younger adults can also develop the condition. In type 2 diabetes, the body does not use insulin effectively and may gradually produce less of it. Glucose then remains in the bloodstream instead of moving efficiently into cells for energy.

This is different from prediabetes, where glucose is higher than usual but has not reached the diagnostic range for diabetes. A clinician uses blood tests and your medical history to distinguish them.

If you have been diagnosed, learn the name of your medicines, when to take them, and what to do if you miss a dose. Keep appointments for glucose checks and discuss blood pressure, cholesterol, kidney health, eyes and feet. Regular movement, balanced meals and avoiding tobacco can support the treatment plan chosen with your clinician.

Ask how to recognise low glucose, called hypoglycaemia, particularly if your treatment can lower glucose. Check your feet for blisters, cuts or colour changes because reduced sensation or circulation can make injuries harder to notice.

Seek urgent medical help for severe confusion, fainting, difficulty breathing, repeated vomiting, or marked drowsiness. Contact a clinician promptly for a foot wound that is red, swollen, warm or draining, or for new weakness, trouble speaking or sudden vision change. These symptoms need assessment rather than an assumption about their cause.

Ask: Why do you consider this type 2 diabetes rather than prediabetes? What glucose targets suit me? Could any medicine affect my kidneys or cause hypoglycaemia? How often should my feet, eyes and kidney function be checked?