Type 2 Diabetes
Insulin resistance is a condition in which the body fails to properly use insulin. When this is combined with relative insulin deficiency – you have type 2 diabetes.
Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes and is a condition in which either the body does not produce enough insulin or the cells ignore the insulin. Insulin is necessary for the body to be able to use glucose for energy. When you eat food, the body breaks down all of the sugars and starches into glucose, which is the basic fuel for the cells in the body. Insulin takes the sugar from the blood into the cells. When glucose builds up in the blood instead of going into cells, it can cause two issues:
- Immediately, your cells may be starved for energy.
- gradually, high blood glucose levels may hurt your eyes, kidneys, nerves or heart.
Diabetes occurs in humans of all shapes and sizes and colors, but some groups have a higher risk for developing type 2 diabetes than others. Type 2 diabetes is more common in African Americans, Latinos, Native Americans, and Asian Americans/Pacific Islanders, as well as the senior population.
Conditions & Treatment
Conditions associated with type 2 diabetes include hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia. Seek information about insulin, oral medications, various diagnostic tests including the A1c test, managing and checking your blood glucose, and tips on what to expect from your doctor.
Complications
Type 2 diabetes will definitely increase your risk for serious complications. Some complications of type 2 diabetes include: heart disease (cardiovascular disease), blindness (retinopathy), nerve damage (neuropathy), and kidney damage (nephropathy). Ask your doctor to learn more about these complications and how to cope with them.
