Health A-Z

Type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how your body metabolizes sugar (glucose), an important source of fuel for your body. Here's an overview of its symptoms, diagnosis, testing, and treatment plan:

1. Frequent Urination: Excess sugar buildup in the bloodstream leads to increased urination.
2. Increased Thirst: Dehydration from frequent urination triggers thirst.
3. Increased Hunger: Despite eating, individuals may feel hungry due to the body's inability to properly utilize glucose.
4. Fatigue: Cells aren't getting enough glucose, leading to fatigue and irritability.
5. Blurry Vision: High blood sugar levels can cause fluid to be pulled from the lenses of your eyes, affecting your ability to focus.
6. Slow Healing: High glucose levels affect blood flow and the immune system, leading to slow wound healing.
7. Numbness or Tingling: Excess sugar can damage nerves, leading to tingling or numbness in the hands and feet.

1. Lifestyle Changes: These include adopting a healthy diet, regular exercise, and weight management.
2. Medications: If lifestyle changes aren't sufficient, medications like metformin, sulfonylureas, meglitinides, or insulin may be prescribed.
3. Blood Sugar Monitoring: Regular monitoring helps to keep blood sugar levels in check and adjust treatment as needed.
4. Healthy Eating: Focus on a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins while limiting sugary and processed foods.
5. Regular Exercise: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week

1. Fasting Plasma Glucose Test: Measures blood glucose levels after an overnight fast. A level of 126 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) or higher indicates diabetes.
2. Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT): Measures blood sugar after fasting and again two hours after drinking a glucose-rich beverage. A reading of 200 mg/dL or higher suggests diabetes.
3. Hemoglobin A1c Test: This test measures your average blood sugar level over the past two to three months. An A1c level of 6.5% or higher indicates diabetes.