Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) is a chronic metabolic disorder where the glucose metabolism in the body does not function properly. This means that the amount of sugar supply required by cells to carry out their routine biochemical activities is neither available nor regulated.


When glucose from food and the liver enters our digestive system, it is broken down into simple sugars. These sugars are then transported to various tissues in the body to meet their energy requirements.

Insulin, a hormone secreted by the pancreas—a large gland situated beneath the stomach—facilitates the transport of these sugars to various organs and helps maintain normal blood sugar levels.

In T2DM, the response to insulin and the processing of glucose are impaired. As a result, sugars accumulate in the bloodstream, causing high blood sugar levels. Over time, the pancreatic cells responsible for producing insulin can also sustain damage, leading to an insufficient supply of insulin to maintain healthy blood sugar levels.

Type 2 diabetes mellitus is a persistent condition, that must be consistently dealt with precise medical treatments and rigorous lifestyle modifications. If the medications are not adhered to by the affected individual, it can lead to very grave consequences including kidney failure, vision problems, nerve damage or neuropathies, heart ailments and skin disorders.

Also Read: Diabetic Neuropathy: Causes, Symptoms And Treatment.

 Type2 Daibetes Mellitus

Risk Factors:

Various underlying reasons can trigger the onset of type 2 diabetes mellitus in adults such as:

  • Being overweight i.e. having a body mass index (BMI) above 24
  • Excess fat storage in the abdominal region
  • Sedentary habits and a complete lack of exercise
  • A family history of T2DM
  • Being older than 40 years of age

 Symptoms:

The characteristic symptoms of type 2 diabetes mellitus include:

  • Feeling thirsty very often
  • Unregulated bowel movements
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Feeling exhausted and dizzy
  • Wounds and blisters that heal very slowly
  • Hazy vision
  • Darkened skin in the armpit and neck areas

 Diagnosis And Treatment:

Doctors begin by assessing the patient's symptoms and family medical history.

The main diagnostic method for T2DM is to analyze blood sugar levels at various times, such as fasting, before and after meals. Normal fasting blood sugar levels are below 100 mg/dL, and post-meal levels under 140 mg/dL are generally considered normal. Blood sugar levels between 140 and 199 mg/dL indicate prediabetes, while levels above 200 mg/dL confirm a diabetes diagnosis.

Laboratory tests to measure blood sugar levels include the glycated haemoglobin test (HbA1C), random blood sugar test, and fasting blood sugar test.

Once high blood sugar levels are confirmed, treatment begins. While T2DM cannot be cured, lifestyle changes—such as a balanced diet, exercise, and prescribed medications—can significantly improve quality of life and minimize complications.


Also Read: Diabetes Mellitus: Know Your Fasting, Post-Prandial, HBA1C Numbers.

Weight management is key in effectively managing type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. Doctors may advise a diet high in fiber, fresh fruits, and vegetables, and low in sugars. Regular exercise and frequent blood sugar monitoring are also recommended.

However, diet and exercise alone may not be enough to control T2DM. Medical professionals often prescribe medications or insulin therapy to help maintain blood glucose levels within the normal range.

In cases of severe obesity (BMI over 35), which can exacerbate T2DM, bariatric surgery may be an option to help reduce body weight and significantly lower blood sugar levels.

(This article is reviewed by Kalyani Krishna, Chief Content Editor)

Author Profile:

M Sowmya Binu:

With over 15 years of expertise and a Postgraduate degree in Nutrition, M Sowmya Binu is a seasoned professional in the field of nutrition. Specializing in tailoring personalized diet plans, she underscores the significance of a balanced approach to health, emphasizing the integration of medication with dietary intake for holistic wellness. Passionate about equipping individuals with knowledge to make informed decisions, Sowmya adeptly develops insightful content encompassing a wide array of topics including food, nutrition, supplements, and overall health.

References:
Type 2 Diabetes
Rajeev Goyal; Mayank Singhal; Ishwarlal Jialal
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK513253/
Overview: Type 2 diabetes
Last Update: December 18, 2023; Next update: 2026.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK279509/