What is type 2 diabetes?

Insulin helps move glucose from the bloodstream into cells for energy. In type 2 diabetes, cells respond less well to insulin and the pancreas may not produce enough to compensate. Some people have no obvious symptoms. Others notice thirst, passing urine often, tiredness, blurred vision or slow-healing wounds.

Diagnosis uses blood tests interpreted by a clinician, rather than symptoms alone. Over time, untreated high glucose can affect nerves, blood vessels, eyes and kidneys. Related problems can include <a href="/conditions/peripheral-neuropathy/">Peripheral Neuropathy</a>, <a href="/conditions/chronic-kidney-disease/">Chronic Kidney Disease</a> and <a href="/conditions/peripheral-arterial-disease/">Peripheral Arterial Disease</a>.

Treatment may include food changes, regular movement, medicines and checks of glucose, blood pressure, cholesterol, feet, eyes and kidney health. The plan is adjusted to your readings, other conditions, work pattern and preferences. Do not stop prescribed medicine when a reading improves without discussing it.

A low glucose episode can cause sweating, shaking, hunger, dizziness or confusion, especially with some diabetes medicines; learn how to respond through your care team. Prediabetes is a related but earlier state, while <a href="/conditions/obesity/">Obesity</a> may influence risk and treatment choices.

Seek urgent care for confusion, collapse, severe weakness, difficulty breathing, chest pressure or sudden trouble speaking or moving. Contact your clinician about a new foot wound, spreading redness, fever, repeated low readings or persistent high readings. Early review can prevent a small problem becoming more serious.

Ask which tests confirm the diagnosis, what your personal targets are, how often checks are needed, and which symptoms should prompt a call. You can also ask how to protect your feet, kidneys and eyes and how other medicines affect glucose.