In addition, gestational diabetes usually disappears after birth; however, both the mother and her child are at increased risk of type 2 diabetes in the future.2
Symptoms of type 2 diabetes include3: Increased thirst and dry mouth Increased and frequent urinationl blurred vision, lack of energy, slow healing wounds, frequent fungal infections in the skin Feeling tired and weak, and numbness or tingling in feet and hands.
Who is at risk?
Type 2 diabetes is frequently, but not always, linked to obesity.3 A diet high in fats and sugars and a low active lifestyle are risk factors for diabetes, as they both make it harder to maintain a healthy weight. In some cases, losing weight and maintaining a healthy lifestyle is enough to control the condition.
Type 2 is also more common in older people over the age of 45.4 Ethnicity is another key risk factor, as ethnic minority groups are often found to be at greater risk of developing type 2 diabetes.5
Treatment for diabetes
Treatment for type 2 diabetes varies depending on the individual and the severity of the condition. In some cases, lifestyle changes and careful management of diet and exercise can be enough; in others, medication is required.
Each individual is responsible for his or her diabetes management plan. With organization, research and resolve, this can be carefully planned and smoothly implemented into your lifestyle. Diet, exercise and medication are all important aspects of staying healthy while living with diabetes.
Lifestyle and diabetes
Being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes means taking on lifestyle changes needed to improve blood glucose levels. This requires effort, but keeping diabetes under control will help prevent heart, nerve, eye and foot problems.
Recommended lifestyle changes include: Lose or maintain a healthy weight, alcohol consumption in moderation, keep an active lifestyle, reduce or quit smoking, and prioritize sleep.
Potential complications of diabetes
People with diabetes have a greater risk of developing certain other conditions and illnesses. These include cardiovascular diseases, kidney disease and eye problems. It is vital that they take greater care of themselves, keep their blood glucose levels as close to normal as possible, maintain a healthy lifestyle and have regular check-ups with their provider for specific parts of the body that are most at risk.
1. Classification and Diagnosis of Diabetes. American Diabetes Association. Diabetes Care 2016 Jan; 39(Supplement 1): S13-S22. https://doi.org/10.2337/dc16-S005.
2. What is diabetes? International Diabetes Federation. https://www.idf.org/aboutdiabetes/what-is-diabetes.html. Accessed April 11, 2019.
3. What is diabetes. Type 2 diabetes. International Diabetes Federation. https://www.idf.org/aboutdiabetes/type-2-diabetes.html. Accessed April 11, 2019.
4. About diabetes. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/basics/type2.html. Accessed April 11, 2019.
5. Type 2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/basics/type2.html. Accessed April 11, 2019.
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