Type 2 diabetes is a group of diseases associated with high blood sugar levels, or hyperglycemia. The condition is caused by insulin resistance, which is a failure to properly use the hormone insulin. Many people with the condition show no physical symptoms at all, though some experience unquenchable thirst and frequent urination. Some also report feeling fatigued and experiencing blurred vision.
When glucose levels are uncontrolled, they can lead to serious health complications, including heart disease. The high sugar levels can lead to atherosclerosis, which narrows blood vessels. In turn, this results in poor blood supply to the heart, which can lead to symptoms like angina. Ultimately, these problems can lead to heart attacks or strokes. As a result, people with type 2 diabetes should take measures to lower their risk of developing these problems.
Several tests are used to diagnose the condition. Fasting glucose and C-peptide levels are used to assess insulin resistance. The levels of these tests can indicate if someone is at risk of developing diabetes. If the blood glucose level is elevated in the blood, it indicates a condition called type 2 diabetes mellitus. In addition to high levels of glucose, T2D can also lead to impaired insulin secretion.
Lifestyle changes such as eating a low-carb diet and increasing physical activity can help people prevent the onset of type 2 diabetes. However, it’s important to remember that diabetes is progressive and many people will need to use multiple drugs to control their blood sugar level. This process is known as combination therapy. The patient and doctor should work together to find the right mix of drugs for them.