What is Type 2 Diabetes?
Type 2 Diabetes is a condition in which the body does not adequately produce or make use of insulin. Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas to help regulate the body’s glucose levels. When the body does not produce enough insulin, or is unable to properly use the insulin it does produce, the body’s glucose levels can become too high. This can lead to serious health problems, including heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure. Type 2 Diabetes is a chronic condition that can be managed with regular monitoring and lifestyle changes, such as exercise and diet.
Can Type 2 Diabetes Go Undetected?
It is possible for Type 2 Diabetes to go undetected for some time. This is especially true if someone with the condition is not regularly monitoring their glucose levels. Symptoms of Type 2 Diabetes can be mild and difficult to recognize, therefore, the condition can remain undiagnosed for some time. Common signs and symptoms of Type 2 Diabetes include increased thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, blurred vision, slow-healing sores or cuts, and sudden weight loss.
Risk Factors for Type 2 Diabetes
There are several risk factors for Type 2 Diabetes, including age, family history, weight, and physical inactivity. Those who are 45 years of age or older, have a family history of the condition, are overweight, or are physically inactive are at an increased risk for developing Type 2 Diabetes. Additionally, certain ethnic groups, such as African-American, Native American, Latino, Pacific Islander, and Asian-American, have an increased risk for the condition.
Screening for Type 2 Diabetes
It is important for those at risk for Type 2 Diabetes to be regularly screened for the condition. The American Diabetes Association recommends that those who are 45 and older have their blood sugar levels checked every three years. Those with a higher risk should be screened more frequently. A fasting glucose test can be used to screen for Type 2 Diabetes, as well as a hemoglobin A1C test. A fasting glucose test measures the amount of glucose in the blood after not eating for 8 hours; a hemoglobin A1C test measures the average of the blood glucose levels over the last two to three months.
Managing Type 2 Diabetes
Once Type 2 Diabetes has been diagnosed, it is important to manage the condition in order to prevent health complications. A doctor can help create a management plan that includes regular monitoring of blood glucose levels, taking medications as prescribed, and making lifestyle changes, such as increasing physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, and eating a balanced diet. Regular doctor visits are also important for monitoring the condition and any health complications.
Conclusion
Type 2 Diabetes is a serious condition that can lead to serious health complications if left untreated. It is possible for Type 2 Diabetes to go undetected for some time, making regular screening and monitoring of blood glucose levels important for those at risk. With proper management and lifestyle changes, Type 2 Diabetes can be managed, and the risk of health complications can be reduced.