As with most chronic conditions, type 2 diabetes can seemingly develop overnight. However, the reality is that type 2 diabetes can be well on its way before you start noticing any symptoms. Even when common symptoms appear, many people may attribute them to other, less serious problems, not thinking that they are in danger of having diabetes until they receive a physician’s diagnosis. In fact, about one in every four people with the condition don’t know that they have it.
But recognizing the symptoms of type 2 diabetes and seeking medical attention as early as possible will you get the treatment and motivate you to make the changes that will keep symptoms and complications of type 2 diabetes to a minimum. Once you accept that type 2 diabetes is now part of your life, you can empower yourself with the knowledge and tools that can put you in control of the condition and live an active and full life like you always have.
Type 2 Diabetes
Also called adult-onset or non-insulin-dependent diabetes, type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition characterized by high blood sugar levels caused by the body’s inability to produce and use insulin properly and efficiently. It typically develops after the age of 35, though doctors are seeing an increasing number of younger adults with the condition.
Type 2 diabetes develops when the body does not turn carbohydrates from food into energy as it is supposed to. When functioning properly, the pancreas releases insulin when blood sugar levels rise. That insulin is what opens the door for blood sugar to get into the body’s cells, where it can provide needed energy. The lack of sufficient insulin can back up all of that glucose in the bloodstream, where it can cause significant problems.
Symptoms of Type 2 Diabetes
Type 2 diabetes symptoms tend to develop gradually. If you experience any of the following common symptoms of type 2 diabetes, you should arrange an appointment with your doctor:
- Constant thirst
- Frequent urination
- Increased hunger
- Dry mouth
- Blurry vision
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fatigue and weakness
- Headaches
- Tingling feet or hands
- Swollen, red, or tender gums
Continuous Glucose Monitoring: A New Way For People With Type 2 Diabetes To Monitor and Manage Blood Sugar
Individuals diagnosed with type 2 diabetes learn quickly the diet and lifestyle changes they need to make to stay healthy. One key aspect of living with type 2 diabetes is getting frequent, accurate measurements of your blood sugar level. That used to mean pricking a finger multiple times a day to obtain a sample. Now, Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) can make finger-pricking a thing of the past for many diabetes patients. CGM is a tested, safe, reliable, and accurate transceiver device that can help some individuals with type 2 diabetes monitor their blood sugar levels 24 hours a day without interrupting their day to obtain a sample.
Contact us today to see if you qualify for CGM and access our guide to continuous glucose monitoring.