Type 2 diabetes is a chronic disease that affects the way the body metabolizes a sugar called glucose, which is the main fuel the body needs, according to the Mayo Clinic. In the past, this type of diabetes has also been known as adult-onset diabetes or non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. There are a multitude of health risks that can accompany Type 2 diabetes because of the condition's effects on the body.
Features
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, Type II diabetes is a metabolic disorder that renders the body unable to produce enough or utilize insulin. The University of Maryland also says that this type of diabetes is the most common kind, accounting for 90 to 95 percent of diagnoses of diabetes, with nearly half the individuals with the disease unaware that they have the condition.
Heart Disease
One health risk of Type 2 diabetes is heart disease; the risk for cardiovascular problems like heart attack, stroke and narrowing of the arteries is increased in people with diabetes, says the Mayo Clinic. The Mayo Clinic also states the risk of stroke doubles in the first five years of Type 2 diabetes treatment. The cause of death in approximately 75 percent of people with diabetes is heart or blood vessel disease, says the American Heart Association, via the Mayo Clinic.
Nerve Damage (Neuropathy)
The National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse estimates that 60 to 70 percent of individuals with diabetes experience some form of neuropathy. Neuropathy results from nerve damage, typically feeling like a tingling, burning or numbness starting in the toes and fingers and spreading upward. The Mayo Clinic says this results from injury to the wall of small blood vessels due to excess sugar. Blood sugar that is not controlled well can contribute to neuropathy and lead to the loss of all sensation in affected areas.
Other Health Risks
Type 2 diabetes affects many different organ systems, with varying effects throughout the body. Damage to the retinal blood vessels in the eye can occur and cause blindness, known as diabetic retinopathy. Bacterial and fungal infections of the skin can occur because of increased susceptibility of the skin to infection. Finally, an increased risk of osteoporosis is also a health risk accompanying Type 2 diabetes.
Considerations
Monitoring blood sugar levels, eating a healthy diet, maintaining a consistent level of physical activity and, if necessary, diabetes medication or insulin therapy are all things that can help reduce the risk of health complications from Type 2 diabetes, says the Mayo Clinic. To help maintain health, the Mayo Clinic also suggests that people with Type 2 diabetes go for regular dentist checkups due to gum complications from diabetes, quit smoking to lower the risk of cardiovascular events, schedule regular eye exams, limit alcohol consumption and keep blood pressure and cholesterol levels low.
Prevention/Solution
According to the Mayo Clinic, there are steps individuals can take to help prevent Type 2 diabetes from developing, even if a family history of the disease is present. A diet low in fat and high in whole grains, fruits and vegetables; daily physical activity; and maintaining a healthy weight can all help prevent the development of Type 2 diabetes. The Mayo Clinic estimates that losing 5 to 10 percent of a person's body weight if he is overweight can significantly reduce the risk of developing the condition. Sometimes the medication Metformin can be effective in helping to prevent the disease, but lasting lifestyle and behavior changes are most important.
