Type 2 Diabetes

What is Type 2 Diabetes?

Type 2 diabetes happens when your body can't use a hormone called insulin properly, or when it doesn't make enough insulin. Insulin is like a key that helps sugar (glucose) from your food get into your cells to give you energy.

When insulin doesn't work well, sugar builds up in your blood instead of getting into your cells. This makes your blood sugar levels too high, which can cause problems over time.

Type 2 diabetes mainly affects adults, but children can sometimes get it too.

Common Signs to Look Out For

You might notice:

• Feeling very thirsty all the time
• Needing to pass urine more often, especially at night
• Feeling very tired
• Losing weight without trying
• Cuts and wounds taking longer to heal
• Blurred vision
• Getting infections more often

Important: These symptoms can develop slowly over months or years. Some people have no symptoms at all in the early stages.

When to Speak to Your GP

You should speak to your GP if you:

• Have any of the symptoms listed above
• Are worried about your risk of diabetes
• Have a family history of diabetes
• Are overweight
• Are over 40 years old (or over 25 if you're from a South Asian, Chinese, African-Caribbean or Black African background)

Urgent: Contact your GP immediately or go to A&E if you have:

• Severe dehydration
• Vomiting and can't keep fluids down
• Very high blood sugar readings (if you test at home)
• Signs of diabetic ketoacidosis (breathing problems, fruity smell on breath, confusion)

How is Type 2 Diabetes Diagnosed?

Your GP will usually do blood tests to check your blood sugar levels. These might include:

• A random blood glucose test
• A fasting blood glucose test (where you don't eat for 8 hours first)
• An HbA1c test (which shows your average blood sugar over 2-3 months)

The GP might also test your urine for glucose.

What Happens After Diagnosis?

If you're diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, your GP will work with you to create a treatment plan. This usually includes:

Lifestyle changes:

• Eating a healthy, balanced diet
• Being more physically active
• Losing weight if needed
• Stopping smoking if you smoke

Medication: You might need tablets or injections to help control your blood sugar levels.

Regular check-ups: You'll have regular appointments to monitor your condition and prevent complications.

Living Well with Type 2 Diabetes

Many people with type 2 diabetes live full, healthy lives. The key is working closely with your healthcare team to manage your condition well.

Remember, early diagnosis and good management can prevent serious complications. Don't ignore symptoms or put off seeing your GP if you're concerned.

Your GP practice will have diabetes nurses and other specialists who can support you every step of the way.

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Based on NHS.uk guidance. Written by Dr Krishnan Pasupathi, NHS GP.