Type 2 Diabetes :Diagnosis and Treatment

What is Type 2 Diabetes?

Type 2 Diabetes, the most common form of diabetes, occurs when the body either becomes resistant to insulin or doesn’t produce enough of it to maintain normal glucose levels. Insulin is a hormone that regulates the movement of sugar into your cells, but with this condition, sugar builds up in the bloodstream instead of being used for energy. While it can develop at any age, it is more common in older adults and is often associated with obesity and lack of physical activity.

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause of Type 2 Diabetes is not fully understood, but genetic and environmental factors play a significant role. Major risk factors include:

• Family history of diabetes
• Being overweight or obese
• Sedentary lifestyle
• High blood pressure
• Poor diet (especially high in sugar and processed foods)

Diagnosis

Diagnosing Type 2 Diabetes usually involves the following tests:

1. Fasting Blood Sugar Test: Measures blood glucose levels after fasting for at least 8 hours. A level of 126 mg/dL or higher indicates diabetes.
2. A1C Test: This test reflects the average blood glucose levels over the past 2-3 months. A result of 6.5% or higher is indicative of diabetes.
3. Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT): Measures blood sugar levels before and after drinking a sugary solution. A blood sugar level of 200 mg/dL or higher after 2 hours suggests diabetes.
4. Random Blood Sugar Test: Blood glucose levels checked at any time; a reading of 200 mg/dL or higher may indicate diabetes.

Treatment

Managing Type 2 Diabetes requires a combination of lifestyle changes, medications, and regular monitoring. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent serious complications such as heart disease, kidney damage, and nerve damage.

1. Lifestyle Changes:
   • Dietary Modifications: A healthy, balanced diet rich in vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins is essential. Avoid processed foods, sugary drinks, and excessive carbohydrates.
   • Regular Exercise: Engaging in physical activity, such as walking, cycling, or swimming, helps the body use insulin more efficiently and lowers blood sugar levels.
   • Weight Management: Losing even 5-10% of body weight can significantly improve blood sugar control.
2. Medication: When lifestyle changes aren’t enough to manage blood sugar levels, medications are prescribed. Here are five commonly prescribed allopathic medications for Type 2 Diabetes:
   1. Metformin: The first-line treatment for many patients. It lowers glucose production in the liver and improves insulin sensitivity.
   2. Glimepiride: A sulfonylurea that helps increase insulin production in the pancreas.
   3. Sitagliptin (Januvia): Enhances the body’s natural ability to lower blood sugar levels.
   4. Empagliflozin (Jardiance): Helps the kidneys remove excess glucose from the bloodstream.
   5. Insulin: In some cases, insulin therapy may be necessary, especially if other treatments aren’t effective.

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/type-2-diabetes/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20351199