Let us all understand type 2 diabetes is a type of diabetes that develops gradually with age and is characterized by insulin resistance in the body.1
Insulin is a hormone, produced by the pancreas, which helps in the movement of sugar from the blood to the body cells, where this sugar is used for energy. What insulin resistance essentially means is that the cells of the body are unable to use insulin effectively.2
Owing to this resistance, the sugar present in the bloodstream is not able to move into the fat, liver, and muscle cells, where it would have been utilized for the formation of energy. Consequently, there is an abnormal buildup of sugar in the bloodstream, known as hyperglycemia, which affects the body functions.1
However, still the exact cause or triggers the series of events leading to type 2 diabetes is unknown. However, following factors are considered to cause type 2 diabetes:2
However, in most of the cases, it is a combination of factors that increases the risk of type 2 diabetes.2
Let’s also understand the factors that can increase your risk of type 2 diabetes2:
Now, let’s get acquainted with the symptoms of type 2 diabetes. You will be surprised to know that the symptoms of type 2 diabetes develop slowly. So, initially the symptoms might appear so mild that there are heavy chances that you might ignore them.
Here is a list of early symptoms of type 2 diabetes:
Excess hunger
Fatigue
Increased thirst
Dryness of mouth
Blurriness of vision
Energy loss
Weight loss
Frequent urination
Itchiness of skin
If your blood sugar levels have been high for a long time, the symptoms can include
Recurrent fungal infections
Appearance of dark patches on skin
Numbness or tingling feeling in extremities
Decreased vision
Slow healing cuts or sores
Pain in feet
Sexual dysfunction
If the above symptoms appear in a combination, it is time that you consult a doctor. Without appropriate treatment, diabetes can become life-threatening.