Grasping Type 2 Diabetes
Type 2 diabetes is a chronic ailment that affects your body’s ability to handle sugar.
Insulin plays a vital role in converting carbohydrates into glucose, which our cells use for energy. In type 2 diabetes, your body doesn’t efficiently utilize the insulin available, resulting in raised blood sugar levels. Persistently high blood sugar can cause severe health problems over time, including cardiovascular diseases, nerve damage, ocular issues, and kidney disorders.
Type 2 diabetes is the most common variant of diabetes. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over 30 million Americans have diabetes, of which about 95% have type 2 diabetes. This form of diabetes predominantly occurs in individuals over 45 years old, but it is increasingly being identified in children, adolescents, and young adults.
Insufficient physical activity and conditions like hypertension can increase your risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Prediabetes or gestational diabetes during pregnancy also elevates your risk. Moreover, your family history and genetics significantly influence your probability of contracting this illness.
Identifying Symptoms of Type 2 Diabetes
The symptoms of type 2 diabetes can develop gradually, allowing the condition to go unnoticed for years. Be on the lookout for these signs:
- Extreme thirst
- Frequent urination
- Increased hunger
- Unintentional weight loss
- Fatigue
- Blurred vision
- Slow-healing wounds
- Frequent infections
- Numbness or tingling in hands or feet
- Darkened patches of skin, especially around the neck and armpits
Symptoms of Type 2 Diabetes in Adults
Adults with type 2 diabetes might experience various symptoms. Common indicators include:
- Increased thirst
- Frequent urination
- Fatigue
- Blurred vision
- Slow healing of cuts and bruises
- Unexplained weight loss
- Yeast infections, particularly in women
The risk of developing type 2 diabetes increases as you age, making your body more insulin resistant and your pancreas less efficient.
Complications related to type 2 diabetes are more prevalent in individuals over 65, leading to heart attacks, vision problems, amputations, and kidney disease. If you encounter any of these symptoms, it’s vital to consult your healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and care.
Symptoms of Type 2 Diabetes in Children
Children with type 2 diabetes might show the following symptoms:
- Excessive thirst
- Frequent urination
- Fatigue
- Unintended weight loss
- Blurred vision
In certain cases, children might also have nausea and vomiting. If your child displays any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to seek medical guidance quickly as they could be indicative of diabetes.