Your informative and quick T2D starter guide and what you can do

T2D is the most common type of diabetes. Unlike T1D, where the body is attacking cells and this leads to a lack of insulin in the body, T2D is where the body is resistant to the normal effects of insulin. As a result, overtime, the body loses its ability to produce enough insulin in the pancreas. This inability leads to high blood glucose levels (also known as blood sugar levels). As insulin assists our body to let glucose into our cells to be absorbed as energy, the inability to produce insulin is why there is excess glucose that stays in the blood and not enough is able to go into the cells. 
 

What’s the difference between T1D and T2D?
These two different types are often confused with each other. The major difference is that T1D is a genetic condition that often shows up in the earlier stages of life. T2D is often associated with lifestyle-related causes and develops over-time.
 
With type 1, your body attacks the cells in the pancreas and therefore limits and affects the production of insulin. With type 2, your body simply cannot make enough insulin. And if it does, the insulin made, unfortunately, doesn’t work properly.
 

What causes T2D? 
T2D most often occurs in middle-aged or older people. However, you can develop T2D at any age. Your chances of developing T2D is higher if you have a family history of diabetes, you are overweight or have obesity. There are a few lifestyle modifiable factors that greatly increase the chances of getting diagnosed with T2D, including:

• High blood pressure
• Overweight
• Having an inactive life
• Poor diet

 
For more information, and to check your level of risk in getting T2D, Diabetes Australia has a calculator with 11 questions that you can answer: https://www.diabetesaustralia.com.au/risk-calculator/
 

T2D Symptoms may include… 
It’s good to take note that many people with T2D present no symptoms (as it is most often diagnosed in older people, the symptoms can often be dismissed as symptoms from ‘getting older’). Some symptoms can include:

• Excessive thirst from feeling dehydrated
• Feeling tired and lethargic
• Cuts on your body that heal slowly
• Constant hunger
• Noticeable itching or skin infections
• Blurred vision 
• Gradually putting on weight. However, some people lose weight
• Mood swings
• Dizziness

IBD Medical was born in Sydney Australia. Our mission is to help improve the lives of people living with diabetes by providing the best possible support products and information.

Remember to always seek advice from your medical practioner before changing anything about your diabetes management. The above information is not medical advice