by Vea Terrie

Created on: March 08, 2009   Last Updated: March 31, 2009

Glucose supplies the energy that fuels our brain and our bodies. The sugars and starches in the foods we eat are broken down during the process of digestion and glucose enters the bloodstream. The pancreas, a gland that aids in digestion, produces the hormone insulin that transports the glucose from our blood into the cells where it can do its job of supplying energy to our bodies.

Type 2 Diabetes

In type 2 diabetes, the most common form of diabetes in adults, which is also known as adult-onset diabetes, not enough insulin is made by the pancreas or the fat, liver and muscle cells become resistant to insulin causing high levels of glucose to remain in the bloodstream. In a mild form of the disease, this type of diabetes can be controlled by watching one's weight, maintaining a nutritious diet, and with regular exercise.

Cases of type 2 diabetes that can no longer be controlled without medication are generally treated with diabetes pills and do not require insulin injections as with type 1 diabetes in which the body's immune system attacks the pancreas destroying the cells which make insulin. Type 2 diabetes can eventually cause damage to the eyes, kidneys, nerves and heart.

People most likely to have type 2 diabetes are generally obese, are not physically active, have low HDL (the good cholesterol) and high triglyceride levels, and generally have high blood pressure.

Symptoms of type 2 diabetes

-Increased thirst, hunger and urination (especially at night) -Fatigue -Weight loss -Blurred vision -Sores that do not heal

Many people with type 2 diabetes are unaware they have it because there are no signs of the disease or the symptoms are mild.

Tests

-Blood glucose test
-Urine analysis
-A Hemoglobin A1C (HbA1c) estimates glucose levels in the blood over a three-month period. A physician may order this test several times a year as a preventative measure against organ damage.
-Positive antibody tests can determine if the patient has type 2 diabetes or LADA

Required Care

Over a period of time, more than one medication may be required to control type 2 diabetes. However, weight loss and regular exercise may enhance the body's ability to use insulin and eliminate the need for medication altogether.

Diabetics must monitor blood glucose levels daily and always carry a fast-acting carbohydrate like a package of glucose tablets.

Special attention must be given to foot care to avoid an undetected infection which may develop from injury.

Seek advice from a healthcare provider for keeping weight,

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