Symptoms Of Diabetes Type 2 - Recognizing The Early Warning Signs

What Is Type 2 Diabetes?

Causes Of Type 2 Diabetes

• Insulin resistance -One of the primary factors in the development of type 2 diabetes is insulin resistance. Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that helps regulate blood sugar levels by allowing cells to absorb glucose for energy. In individuals with insulin resistance, the cells become less responsive to insulin, leading to higher levels of glucose circulating in the bloodstream.
• Genetic predisposition -Genetics plays a crucial role in the development of type 2 diabetes. Individuals with a family history of the condition are at a higher risk of developing it themselves. While specific genes linked to type 2 diabetes have been identified, environmental factors also influence whether these genes are expressed.
• Lifestyle factors -Unhealthy lifestyle habits, such as poor diet, lack of physical activity, and obesity, significantly increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. A diet high in processed foods, sugary beverages, and refined carbohydrates can contribute to weight gain and insulin resistance. Sedentary behavior further exacerbates these effects.
• Obesity -Excess body fat, particularly abdominal fat, is strongly associated with insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. Fat cells, especially those around the abdomen, release inflammatory substances that interfere with insulin signaling and glucose metabolism. This leads to elevated blood sugar levels and an increased risk of developing diabetes.
• Age -The risk of developing type 2 diabetes increases with age, particularly after the age of 45. This may be due to factors such as decreased physical activity, loss of muscle mass, and changes in hormone levels that affect insulin sensitivity.
• Ethnicity -Certain ethnic groups, including African Americans, Hispanic Americans, Native Americans, and Asian Americans, have a higher prevalence of type 2 diabetes compared to Caucasians. Genetic factors, as well as socioeconomic and cultural factors, may contribute to these disparities.
• Gestational diabetes -Women who develop gestational diabetes during pregnancy are at an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life. Gestational diabetes is a temporary condition characterized by high blood sugar levels during pregnancy, but it raises the risk of developing type 2 diabetes in both the mother and child.
• Other medical conditions -Certain medical conditions, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), hypertension, and metabolic syndrome, are associated with insulin resistance and an increased risk of type 2 diabetes.

Symptoms Of Type 2 Diabetes

• Increased thirst (Polydipsia) -People with type 2 diabetes often experience excessive thirst, as the body tries to flush out excess sugar through increased urine production.
• Frequent urination (Polyuria) -High blood sugar levels prompt the kidneys to work harder to filter and absorb the excess glucose. This leads to increased urine production, causing frequent urination, especially during the night (nocturia).
• Extreme hunger (Polyphagia) -Despite eating regularly, individuals with type 2 diabetes may feel hungry all the time. This is because the body's cells are not receiving enough glucose for energy due to insulin resistance.
• Unexplained weight loss or weight gain -Some people may experience unexplained weight loss, despite eating more (polyphagia), while others may gain weight due to increased hunger and overeating.
• Fatigue -Feeling tired and lethargic is a common symptom of type 2 diabetes. The body's inability to properly utilize glucose for energy can lead to persistent fatigue.
• Blurred vision -High blood sugar levels can cause temporary changes in the shape of the lens inside the eye, leading to blurred vision. This symptom usually resolves once blood sugar levels are controlled.
• Slow healing of wounds -Diabetes can affect the body's ability to heal wounds and injuries. High blood sugar levels can impair circulation and damage nerves, leading to delayed wound healing and an increased risk of infections.
• Numbness or tingling in hands and feet -Over time, high blood sugar levels can damage the nerves, resulting in a condition called diabetic neuropathy. This can cause numbness, tingling, or burning sensations, particularly in the hands and feet.
• Frequent infections -Individuals with type 2 diabetes are more prone to infections, particularly fungal infections such as yeast infections (thrush) and urinary tract infections. High blood sugar levels provide an ideal environment for bacteria and fungi to thrive.
• Darkened skin patches -Some people with type 2 diabetes may develop dark, velvety patches of skin, especially in areas such as the neck, armpits, and groin. This condition, known as acanthosis nigricans, is often associated with insulin resistance.

Type 2 Diabetes Diagnosis And Tests

• A1c- This test provides an average percentage of your blood glucose levels over the past 2 or 3 months.
• Fasting plasma glucose- Also known as a fasting blood sugar test, this measures your blood sugar levels when you have an empty stomach. You must refrain from eating or drinking anything except water for 8 hours prior to the test.
• Oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT)- This assesses your blood glucose levels before and 2 hours after consuming a sweet beverage, allowing observation of how your body processes sugar.

Symptoms Of Diabetes Type 2 - FAQ

Can I Live A Normal Life With Type 2 Diabetes?

What Happens If I'm Diagnosed With Type 2 Diabetes?

Should I Worry If I Have Type 2 Diabetes?

Final Thoughts