Type II Diabetes
Author: tiger Published Under: Health
The body uses insulin to help break down glucose, a sugar, and turn it into energy. However, in an individual with Type II Diabetes, the body either builds up a resistance to insulin or is otherwise unable to efficiently use it.
Type II Diabetes is often referred to as Non-Insulin Dependent Diabetes (NIDDM,) because the body still produces insulin, but is unable to properly use it.
Type II Diabetes had often previously been referred to as Maturity Onset Diabetes, because it is usually found in those over the age of forty. However, Type II diabetes, it can be found in people of all ages.
Like Type I Diabetes, the exact causes of Type II Diabetes are not known, although there are certainly indications that Type II Diabetes is inherited. However, another factor, such as obesity, is usually present in those who develop Type II Diabetes. Obesity is thought of to be the biggest risk factor of Type II Diabetes.
Symptoms of Type II Diabetes
Type II Diabetes usually develops at a very slow pace, with many people recognizing the symptoms, but not thinking they are anything out of the ordinary.
Some common symptoms of Type II Diabetes are increased urination, irritability, tiredness, and weight loss, despite an overly healthy appetite. It is also common for wounds to heal very slowly and to experience tingling sensations in ones hands and feet. Dry skin, itchy skin, and blurred vision are also sometimes indications that Type II Diabetes is present.
While Type II Diabetes is the most common type of diabetes, making up 90% of all reported cases, it often goes unreported. This is because they symptoms develop very slowly and often among older people, they are attributed to simply the natural aging process. Half of all Americans who have Diabetes are considered to not know they are infected.
Living with Type II Diabetes
With an aggressive treatment plan, Type II Diabetes can usually be controlled, with the individual leading a healthy life.
One of the most important parts of Type II Diabetes Treatment is good blood sugar control, which is simply trying to keep the glucose levels in the blood at a healthy level.
In many cases, Good Blood Sugar Control can be achieved by eating healthily and getting regular exercise alone, at least in the early stages of the disease. However, for some, taking special pills that restore the sensitivity to insulin in the body are also required.
One of the most important steps in the treatment of Type II Diabetes is proper weight management, including weight loss for those who are overweight. Often, those who are at risk of Type II diabetes can avoid it by ensuring that they are of a healthy weight and it can also help control the diabetes in those who have been diagnosed with Type II diabetes.
Monitoring ones glucose level may also be a part of the prescribed treatment of Type II Diabetes, but this will often depend on the specific situation.