Being overweight or obese increases your risk of type 2, or adult-onset, diabetes. Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body is no longer able to metabolize blood sugar properly. This leads to increased levels of glucose, or sugar, in the blood. Complications, such as kidney disease and peripheral neuropathy, or pain in the legs and feet, can arise because of type 2 diabetes. The condition can be prevented for many by opting for a healthy diet and staying active.
Symptoms
You can have type 2 diabetes for years before symptoms begin to develop. When symptoms begin to develop, they include increased thirst and hunger, weight loss, fatigue, blurred vision, slow wound healing, frequent infections and darkened skin on your armpits or neck. If you have symptoms of type 2 diabetes, it is crucial to seek medical attention and begin treatment to prevent further damage to your body.
Tests
Undergoing laboratory testing for type 2 diabetes is the only way to know if you have the disease. Your physician will likely recommend a glycated hemoglobin, or A1C, test to help determine if you are diabetic. This test indicates your average blood sugar over the previous two to three months. Your physician may opt for a random blood sugar test or fasting blood sugar test in lieu of an A1C test if you are unable to undergo accurate A1C testing due to pregnancy or blood sugar abnormalities.
Management
Some people are able to manage type 2 diabetes with diet and exercise alone. Incorporating cardiovascular exercise, reducing your weight and choosing foods high in protein and avoiding sugary foods may help reduce your blood sugar levels. Your blood sugar will need to be monitored throughout the day with a home-testing device to determine how well your diet and exercise routine is controlling your blood sugar. Your physician will likely set a schedule for you to test and record your blood sugars throughout the day.
Medical Treatment
For some people with diabetes, diet and exercise alone are not enough to control sugar levels. Oral medications along with a healthy diet and regular exercise may be required to control symptoms. Medications are aimed at lowering blood glucose levels, particularly after meals. If oral medications and diet cannot control your blood sugar, you may be prescribed insulin. Insulin must be injected under the skin, which you can do yourself at home after proper training from a medical specialist. These injections may be required one to four times daily.
