Type 2 diabetes mellitus

Insulin helps glucose move from the bloodstream into cells for energy. In type 2 diabetes, the body may resist insulin and later produce less of it, so glucose builds up in the blood. Some people have few symptoms at first. Over time, untreated or poorly controlled glucose can affect nerves, kidneys, eyes, blood vessels, and the heart. Obesity and prediabetes can increase the chance of developing type 2 diabetes, but the condition can occur in different body types.

Your plan may combine food choices, regular movement, sleep, glucose checks, tablets, non-insulin injections, or insulin. Follow the agreed plan and attend reviews so glucose, blood pressure, kidney function, feet, and treatment effects can be checked. Look at your feet each day for redness, blisters, cracks, or wounds. Keep vaccinations and routine eye checks up to date when recommended. A clinician can help set practical goals that fit your work, family life, and other conditions.

Get urgent help for severe confusion, fainting, seizures, chest pain, sudden weakness on one side, or trouble speaking. Contact a clinician promptly for repeated low glucose symptoms, persistent vomiting, dehydration, a foot wound, spreading redness, or glucose readings that remain high with worsening thirst or urination. Illness can change glucose needs, so ask for sick-day instructions before you need them.

What glucose checks do I need and when? Which medicines suit my kidney function and other conditions? How should I adjust activity or food during illness? What foot, eye, and kidney checks should I schedule?