Type 2 diabetes
Einstein Health Glossary
ICD 10 - E11
What is type 2 diabetes?
Type 2 diabetes is a condition in which the body develops resistance to insulin, causing chronically high blood sugar levels (glycemia). It is associated with obesity, physical inactivity, and poor diet.
Symptoms
In the beginning, type 2 diabetes tends to be asymptomatic. Over time, symptoms such as excessive thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, and blurred vision may appear. It is linked to complications such as heart attack, stroke, and others.
Causes
Type 2 diabetes is caused by the body's resistance to insulin. The pancreas compensates by producing more insulin, but over time this overload affects the organ, leading to increased blood sugar levels. It is associated with obesity, sedentary lifestyle, poor diet, genetics, and other factors.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of type 2 diabetes involves blood tests to measure blood sugar levels.
Prevention Method
The risk of developing type 2 diabetes can be reduced by making lifestyle changes, including healthy eating habits, weight loss, quitting smoking, and regular physical activity.
Treatment
Treatment for type 2 diabetes includes medications that lower blood sugar and, eventually, insulin replacement doses. Diet and physical exercise are very important. Consult a healthcare professional.
Duration
Type 2 diabetes is an incurable disease that stays with the person for life after diagnosis.
Is it contagious?
Type 2 diabetes is not contagious.
Can it be contracted more than once?
Type 2 diabetes is diagnosed only once, as it has no cure.