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Type 2 Diabetes
Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of
diabetes. In type 2 diabetes, either the body does not produce enough
insulin or the cells ignore the insulin. Insulin is necessary for the
body to be able to use sugar. Sugar is the basic fuel for the cells in
the body, and insulin takes the sugar from the blood into the cells.
When glucose builds up in the blood instead of going into cells, it can
cause two problems:
-
Right away, your cells may be starved for
energy.
-
Over time, high blood glucose levels may
hurt your eyes, kidneys, nerves or heart.
Finding out you have diabetes is scary. But
don't panic. Type 2 diabetes is serious, but people with diabetes can
live long, healthy, happy lives.
While diabetes occurs in people of all ages
and races, some groups have a higher risk for developing type 2 diabetes
than others. Type 2 diabetes is more common in African Americans,
Latinos, Native Americans, and Asian Americans/Pacific Islanders, as
well as the aged population.
Conditions & Treatment
Arm yourself with information about
conditions associated with type 2 diabetes, and how to prevent them.
Conditions associated with type 2 diabetes include hyperglycemia and
hypoglycemia.
Complications
Having type 2 diabetes increases your risk
for many serious complications. Some complications of type 2 diabetes
include:
- Heart Disease and Stroke
- Kidney Disease
- Eye Complications
- Neuropathy and Nerve Damage
- Foot Complications
- Skin Complications
Your Body's Well Being
Make it a priority to take good care of your
body. The time you spend now on eye care, foot care and skin care, as
well as your heart health and oral health, could delay or prevent the
onset of dangerous type 2 diabetes complications later in life. Plus,
some of the best things you can do for your body are to stop smoking,
and reduce the amount of alcohol you drink.
More Information
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