Understanding 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. Blood glucose can rise gradually, and some people have few noticeable symptoms at first.

Management reduces the strain of high glucose on blood vessels, nerves, kidneys and eyes. Possible problems include [Chronic Kidney Disease](/conditions/chronic-kidney-disease/), [Peripheral Neuropathy](/conditions/peripheral-neuropathy/) and [Peripheral Arterial Disease](/conditions/peripheral-arterial-disease/).

Keep appointments for glucose checks, blood pressure review and other monitoring recommended for you. Take medicines as prescribed and discuss side effects before changing them. Regular movement, balanced meals, sleep and stopping smoking can support glucose control; your clinician can tailor advice to your health and routine.

Learn the signs of low glucose, such as shaking, sweating, hunger, confusion or unusual weakness, particularly if your treatment can cause it. [Hypoglycaemia](/conditions/hypoglycaemia/) needs prompt attention. Foot care matters because reduced sensation can hide a wound, while a small break in the skin can become [Cellulitis](/conditions/cellulitis/).

Seek urgent medical help for severe confusion, fainting, difficulty breathing, repeated vomiting, or marked drowsiness. Contact your diabetes team promptly for persistently high readings, a new foot wound, spreading redness, fever, or symptoms of a stroke such as sudden facial drooping, arm weakness or speech difficulty.

Ask which glucose targets apply to you, how often to test, what to do when you are ill, and whether you need kidney, eye, foot or nerve checks. You can also ask how [Prediabetes](/conditions/prediabetes/) differs from diabetes, and how weight, activity or another condition affects your plan.