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What Causes Type 2 Diabetes?

What Causes Type 2 Diabetes?

By Piper Gorley
|
May 19, 2023
A female doctor conducting a test on an older patient
Photo Courtesy: Adobe Images

Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes. The condition occurs when cells become insulin-resistant, or the body fails to produce enough insulin. Though many adults go without a diagnosis for years, distressing symptoms of type two diabetes may emerge over time. If untreated, type 2 diabetes can substantially impact your overall health and wellness.

While type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition, management and lifestyle changes can allow you to lead a happy, productive life. What are the signs of type 2 diabetes? How does the condition manifest? And how can treatment help ease symptoms?

How does type 2 diabetes affect the body?

There are two ways that type two diabetes manifests in the body. In many with the condition, fat and muscle cells become insulin-resistant and fail to accept sugar. However, type 2 diabetes can also develop due to beta-cell dysfunction, during which immune cells attack crucial pancreatic cells that release insulin. As a result, the pancreas fails to produce the required insulin to balance one's blood sugar.

While those with the condition may experience a range of limited to severe symptoms, common symptoms of type 2 diabetes include:

  • Exhaustion and fatigue
  • Increased urination
  • Intense thirst
  • Neuropathy (numbness in hands and feet)
  • Infections
  • Excessive hunger
  • Weight loss

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, check in with your doctor about testing for type 2 diabetes. A simple A1C blood test can measure hemoglobin levels and determine if you have the condition.

Causes of type 2 diabetes

One of the primary causes of type 2 diabetes is harmful lifestyle choices, including an unhealthy diet and a lack of exercise. Both make it difficult for your body to burn glucose, resulting in obesity. Chronic obesity increases your risk of developing insulin resistance.

Type 2 diabetes can also manifest in multiple members of the same family. Both genetics and shared lifestyle habits contribute to the onset of the condition. Unhealthy habits around food and inactivity may be reinforced in a shared household, leading to type 2 diabetes in families.

In addition, pre-existing risk factors can increase your likelihood of developing the condition. One of these is ethnicity. Diabetes is more commonly diagnosed in minorities, including Native Americans (14.5%), Black Americans (12.1%), Hispanics (11.8%), and Asian Americans (9.5%). Age is also a primary factor in the development of type 2 diabetes, as the condition is diagnosed more frequently in individuals over 35.

Complications of type 2 diabetes

Type 2 diabetes can result in major health complications if the condition goes untreated. The condition impacts many organ systems, upping your risk for heart disease, kidney disease, and nervous system dysfunction. Heart attacks and strokes are twice as likely in those with type 2 diabetes.

Type 2 diabetes can also make recovering from injuries and illness more difficult. Nerve damage and constricted blood vessels can lead to infections in the limbs. In severe cases, amputation may become necessary. Vision issues are also common. Over time, cataracts, damaged blood vessels, and fluid build-up in the eyes may lead to cloudy, impaired vision.

Depression and anxiety may also appear alongside a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes. The stressors of managing a chronic condition and dealing with disheartening symptoms can add significant stress to your mental health. Plus, the stigma around those with type 2 diabetes can impact self-esteem and confidence.

These are only a few of the complications of type 2 diabetes. It's important to detect and treat type 2 diabetes early to prevent these from occurring.

Treatment and management of type 2 diabetes

One of the main treatments for type 2 diabetes is forming a healthier lifestyle. Your doctor will likely recommend increased physical activity. Even in short sessions, exercise burns glucose and ups your sensitivity to insulin. Cardio (such as jogging, swimming, or running) and strength training are highly effective in improving overall health in those with type two diabetes.

Healthy weight loss and dieting are also crucial to type two diabetes management. You'll want to avoid crash diets or rapid, unmonitored weight loss. You may consider consulting a dietitian with experience in treating those with type 2 diabetes. They can help you prepare balanced meals, monitor portion sizes, and ensure you lose weight at a healthy speed.

Diet and exercise alone may not be enough to manage your blood sugar. If so, your doctor may recommend either glucose-lowering medications or insulin therapy. One popular medication, metformin, decreases glucose production in the liver. Others, like sulfonylureas and glinides, boost insulin production and increase insulin sensitivity. Your healthcare provider will decide what is best for your needs.

Lastly, it's important to maintain a strong support system and a positive perspective. While lifestyle changes can be difficult, type 2 diabetes does not have to limit your future. Diagnosis, treatment, and maintenance can ensure you enjoy many joyous, healthy years.

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