Type 2 Diabetes
Most often referred to as non-insulin dependent diabetes, Type 2 Diabetes affects between 90 and 95 percent of all the people who have diabetes (estimated to be 21 million people).
People with Type 2 Diabetes produce insulin naturally in their bodies (unlike Type 1) however, the body does not properly utilize the insulin which causes a buildup of glucose causing body cells to not work properly.
Type 2 Diabetes Risk Factors
There are many potential risks associated with Type 2 Diabetes including dehydration (since the kidneys are trying to eliminate the built up glucose causing increased urination), diabetic coma (caused by excessive dehydration), and damage to nerves and small blood vessels of the eyes, kidneys, and heart and predispose a person to atherosclerosis (which can cause stroke or heart failure).While anyone can get Type 2 Diabetes, those who are obese are at a greater risk than those who eat properly and get sufficient amounts of exercise. Women who have suffered with gestational diabetes, those who have a family history or those who have increased cholesterol levels are also at risk. Since the body becomes less tolerant of sugars as we age, this is also a factor in developing Type 2 Diabetes.
The symptoms of Type 2 Diabetes vary from person to person but may include:
- Increased thirst
- Increased hunger
- Dry mouth
- Nausea and occasionally vomiting
- Frequent urination
- Weak or feeling excessively tired
- Blurred vision
- Numbness or tingling of the hands or feet.
- Skin, urinary tract or vaginal yeast infections
Rarely, Type 2 Diabetes may not be diagnosed until a person lands in the hospital in a diabetic coma. A number of serious or life-threatening problems may occur with Type 2 Diabetes including Diabetic Retinopathy which is an abnormality in the eye that may develop. Typically any vision loss associated with this disease is typically not significant. The risk of kidney damage also increases and may cause not only kidney failure but heart disease as well. Type 2 Diabetics also need to be concerned with decreased blood circulation to the feet which can lead to increased infections, ulcers and may ultimately result in amputation. Other nerve damage can lead to digestive problems as well.
