Diabetes Type 2: Symptoms, Causes and Treatment

Diabetes Type 2 - A long-term condition where the body cannot use insulin well, so blood sugar stays too high.

What is Diabetes Type 2?

Diabetes type 2 is a chronic condition in which the body either does not make enough insulin or cannot use it properly (insulin resistance). Insulin is the hormone that moves glucose from the blood into cells for energy. When it does not work well, glucose builds up in the bloodstream. Over years, high blood sugar damages blood vessels and nerves, which is why diabetes affects the heart, kidneys, eyes and feet. It is the most common form of diabetes worldwide and is closely linked to weight, activity and family history.

Causes and Risk Factors

• Excess body weight, especially around the waist
• Physical inactivity and long sitting time
• Family history of diabetes
• Age over 35-40 (now also seen in young adults)
• History of gestational diabetes or prediabetes
• South Asian, African or Middle Eastern ancestry carries higher risk

Signs and Symptoms

• Passing urine often, especially at night
• Strong thirst and dry mouth
• Tiredness and low energy
• Blurred vision
• Slow-healing cuts or frequent infections
• Tingling or numbness in feet
• Many people have no symptoms for years

Red Flags: When to See a Doctor Urgently

Diagnosis: Tests, Lab and Imaging

Diagnosis is made with blood tests: fasting plasma glucose (7.0 mmol/L or 126 mg/dL and above on two occasions suggests diabetes), HbA1c (6.5% or higher), or an oral glucose tolerance test. A normal fasting glucose is below 5.6 mmol/L (100 mg/dL). Follow-up includes kidney function, urine albumin, cholesterol, eye screening and foot checks.

Treatment and Medicines

Treatment starts with lifestyle change: weight loss of even 5-10%, regular activity and a balanced diet. Metformin is usually the first medicine. Other options include SGLT2 inhibitors, GLP-1 receptor agonists, DPP-4 inhibitors, sulfonylureas and insulin. Choice depends on heart and kidney health, cost and side effects, so it is always set by a doctor.

Emergency

If you notice any red-flag sign, call 1122 (Pakistan), 911 (USA), 999 (UK) or 112 (Europe), or go to the nearest emergency department. See our emergency first aid guide.

Complications

Heart attack, stroke, kidney disease, eye damage (retinopathy), nerve damage, foot ulcers and amputation, and gum disease.

Prevention

• Keep a healthy weight; small losses help
• Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate activity each week
• Choose whole grains, vegetables, pulses; cut sugary drinks
• Do not smoke
• Get screened if you have risk factors

Outlook and Follow-up

With good control of sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol, most people live long, active lives. Some people achieve remission after significant weight loss. Regular reviews every 3-6 months help catch problems early.

Patient Education

Write down your questions before appointments, bring a list of all medicines, and ask what results mean for you. Use our symptom checker to learn which departments relate to your symptoms. This Diabetes Type 2 guide is educational and reviewed against WHO, CDC and NIH sources by the ghkh.site editorial team.

Frequently Asked Questions