Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is defined as a disease of the metabolism. Glucose is a result of the food which is eaten and converted during digestion. More than 6 million people in the US have type 2 diabetes but they do not know it and most of time they have no signs or symptoms.

Type 2 Diabetes is the very common form of diabetes and it occurs because: -

• There is too much glucose which is released into the bloodstream because of the liver.
• Fat and muscle cells become resistant to insulin.
• Pancreatic beta cells are unable to release enough insulin to meet the body’s requirement.

The occurrence of type 2 diabetes is much more among the middle aged and older adults, but soon even children are being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes.

Health Problems with Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes can cause the following health problems:

• Diabetic nephropathy - a kidney disease
• Stroke and heart conditions
• Blindness and eye diseases
• Diabetic neuropathy - nerve disease
• Leg amputations and foot problems
• Skin disorders
• Sexual dysfunction
• Pregnancy complications
• Urinary incontinence
• Thrush, tuberculosis and yeast infections

Type 2 diabetes is on a major rise across the world, it is called one of the largest epidemics which the world is currently experiencing.

Type 2 Diabetes Factors

The factors which lead to Type 2 diabetes are:

• Weight
  Obesity increases the chance of type 2 diabetes, cells become resistant to an individuals own insulin because of an increase in fatty tissues.
  
  
• Level of being active
  As the activity of an individual starts decreasing, he becomes more prone to health problems such as obesity and unhealthy cholesterol levels.
  
  
• Family History
  The chances of developing type 2 diabetes is more when it is inherited in genes.
  
  
• High Blood Pressure
  People who suffer from hyper tension are at a much greater risk for developing Type 2 diabetes.
  
  
• Other Factors
  Some other factors which contribute towards type 2 diabetes are unhealthy cholesterol levels, metabolic syndrome, and few medications.

Type 2 Diabetes Diagnosis

Diabetes can only be diagnosed through proper blood tests by the physician.

Some of tests which determine the prevalence of type 2 diabetes are:

• Random Plasma Glucose Test
  This test is conducted as routine physical examination.
  
  
• Fasting Blood Glucose Test
  Normal fasting blood glucose is usually below 100 mg/dL.
  
  
• Oral Glucose Tolerance Test
  Under OGTT the normal blood sugar is usually 140 mg/dl, which is two hours after consuming a drink rich in glucose. When the level rises to 200 mg/l or even more the person is most likely suffering for diabetes.

Type 2 Diabetes Prevention

The onset of type 2 diabetes can be prevented in the following way:

• Good diet – A balanced diet which means low in sugar and high in fiber.
• Weight Reduction
• Exercising
• Cholesterol should be kept under check.
• Keep a check on high blood pressure.

To protect yourself from type 2 diabetes, engage in a healthy lifestyle.