Diabetes is a chronic disease, which is indicated by high blood glucose levels. There are three different types of diabetes – Type 1, Type 2, and gestational, and all are associated with the hormone called insulin. In type 2 diabetes, the patient’s body doesn’t respond to insulin normally, and at some point, this can cause the body to not produce enough of the hormone. This is also known as insulin resistance. In this post, we are sharing more on type 2 diabetes prevention and management
Understanding the symptoms
There are standard symptoms of type 2 diabetes, such as constant hunger, lack of energy or unexplained fatigue, weight loss, frequent urination (especially at night), dry mouth, and thirst. Some patients also have symptoms like itchy skin and vision issues. If the patient has been suffering from type 2 diabetes for a while, they may be prone to yeast infections, and cuts and wounds may take longer to heal.
Knowing the causes
A patient with type 2 diabetes is typically resistant to insulin, which means that the body doesn’t not use the hormone efficiently. If not treated, this can impact the pancreas eventually. There are several known causes of type 2 diabetes, including genes, obesity, metabolic syndrome, excessive glucose production in the liver, and broken beta cells.
Prevention of Type 2 Diabetes
People with an active lifestyle are less susceptible to Type 2 Diabetes. There are studies that show that Type 2 Diabetes can be reversed too. Here are some standard prevention tips-
- Weight management. Obesity is one of the leading triggers for type 2 diabetes. Just by losing a small amount, it is possible to prevent or delay diabetes.
- Exercise. Some form of physical activity is recommended for anyone diagnosed with prediabetes. In fact, if you are concerned about diabetes, start exercising regularly. Consider simple physical activities like brisk walking and running, which can also help in losing weight.
- Healthy diet. A healthy diet is key to preventing diabetes. Eat more of fresh fruits and veggies every day, with balanced amounts of fats and protein. Cutting down on refined carbs is also recommended.
A sedentary lifestyle can be the root cause of Type 2 Diabetes. As long as you are eating healthy and exercising at least three to four times per week, you can easily beat Type 2 Diabetes.
Treatment for type 2 diabetes
Type 2 diabetes is NOT something you can manage on your own. It is possible to have a comprehensive type 2 diabetes management plan, and your healthcare practitioner can offer a detailed overview. Not every patient with type 2 diabetes needs insulin. A doctor, like the one at https://www.tvfammed.com/, may recommend medications, such as metformin, sulfonylureas, meglitinides, thiazolidinediones, dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors, and GLP-1 receptor agonists. For some patients, SGLT2 inhibitors can be recommended. These are all drugs that must be taken under the supervision of a doctor.
When to see a doctor?
If you have any of the symptoms listed above, or are predisposed to type 2 diabetes because of your family history, check with your doctor. There are clinics that have comprehensive type 2 diabetes management plans, where the physician will determine the treatment protocol, based on your symptoms, age, and other factors. Do NOT ignore the possibility of type 2 diabetes if you have been diagnosed with prediabetes.
Living with type 2 diabetes
Type 2 diabetes should not impact your life, as long as you adhere to your doctor’s advice and prescription. With weight control, enough physical activity, and healthy eating, type 2 diabetes can be managed easily. If you have prediabetes, get screened for type 2 diabetes every couple of months.