Type 2 Diabetes - What You Need to Know

There are several different types of diabetes, but the most common is type 2 diabetes. Insulin is a substance produced by the body to transport sugars to the necessary cells for energy. People who suffer from type 2 diabetes either have a shortage of insulin or their cells just simply ignore the insulin, causing sugars to build up in the bloodstream.

Anyone can develop type 2 diabetes, but the disease most commonly affects elderly individuals. African Americans, Native Americans, and Hispanics are the ethnic groups at the most risk of developing type 2 diabetes. The disease is also passed through generations genetically. Other factors that increase the risk include obesity, high blood pressure, and an improper diet with little exercise.

The most common conditions associated with type 2 diabetes are hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia. Hypoglycemia occurs when the insulin carries away too much sugar and the blood glucose level drops too low. If this condition is not treated quickly, the sufferer can loose consciousness, making emergency treatment mandatory.

People with type 2 diabetes must set up a consistent schedule with their doctor to monitor their blood glucose level. The person will check their blood periodically using one of several different methods, including pricking their finger. If the blood sugar level is low, the person will treat the hypoglycemia by eating or drinking something with sugar. Fruit juice and hard candy are recommended, and glucose tablets are available as well.

Hyperglycemia is just as worrisome to those with type 2 diabetes. Hyperglycemia is a primary cause of most complications associated with type 2 diabetes, and occurs when the glucose level in the blood gets too high. This is usually a result of the body’s inability to properly use the insulin and can be caused by several different things that affect the body‘s stress levels.

Hyperglycemia can progress to a condition called ketoacidosis, or a diabetic coma, if left untreated. A diabetic coma can be fatal, so those with type 2 diabetes must also treat a high sugar level immediately when they check their blood. Exercising can usually reduce high levels of glucose in the blood and doctors can usually suggest other methods to their diabetes patients.

Besides closely monitoring their blood glucose levels on a regular basis, those with type 2 diabetes must also adhere to a very rigid diet. It is important for those with the disease to get the right amount of proteins, carbohydrates, and other essential nutrients, and it is also important for them to eat at the right times to avoid other complications. A healthy, well balanced diet is also vital to weight management, which can be an issue for those with type 2 diabetes.

Proper exercise is another important factor in managing type 2 diabetes. Those with the disease must exercise daily, paying close attention to their glucose levels before and after the workout. If a patient still has trouble maintaining their sugar levels, their doctor may prescribe one or more oral medications to assist the body in keeping these levels under control.

Medications, regulated meal and exercise plans, and monitoring glucose levels are a normal part of a type 2 diabetes sufferer’s day. There are also a number of other conditions that may affect people with this incurable disease. Feelings of depression and helplessness are not uncommon. A number of foot complications are also likely to occur in those who have type 2 diabetes, including nerve damage, dry skin and calluses, foot ulcers, and problems with circulation.

Nearly one third of those diagnosed with diabetes experience some sort of skin condition as well. Infections, fungus, and blisters are not uncommon. Changes in the arteries and blood vessels can also occur, changing the appearance of the skin, and a number of specific skin rashes and outbreaks can affect a diabetic as well. Those with type 2 diabetes must deal with an increased risk of heart complications, kidney failure, and nerve damage because of the disease. Eye complications and possible blindness are also fears for diabetics.

A person with type 2 diabetes can reduce their risks of other complications by keeping their blood glucose levels under control. Though there is presently no proven cure for type 2 diabetes, a diabetic can live a long and happy life with the disease once they have adapted to changing their meal and exercise habits and conformed to a consistent schedule of checking their blood.