Diabetes is a term that can cause a lot of fear and confusion. Receiving type 2 Diabetes can feel overwhelming, leaving you with questions about how this chronic condition affects your body. While it’s true that diabetes alters various bodily functions, understanding these changes empowers you to manage your health effectively. So, let’s look into what happens to your body when diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. 

What happens if you have type 2 diabetes?

In people diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, the body does not make enough insulin or the insulin does not work efficiently to keep the type 2 diabetes glucose levels low. This leads to developing insulin resistance, which makes the pancreas release more insulin, even though if the insulin levels are sufficient or high they do not help in managing the Blood Sugar Levels.

What is the effect of type 2 diabetes on the human body and its functions?

When type 2 diabetes begins to show effect on the human body it has a medical term called hyperglycemia, it can trigger a chain reaction in the body. 

Excretory, endocrine, and digestive system:

When the body makes little insulin, and if the human body does not make use of it, the body’s other hormones are used to generate energy from the fat cells. This can cause a buildup of toxic chemicals like ketones and acids, which can lead to a condition called diabetic ketoacidosis. 

This is one of the complications of diabetes, and can cause symptoms like:

• Frequent thirst
• Fatigue
• Excessive urination

Both frequent thirst and urination can also occur as the kidneys overwork to eliminate the excess glucose in the blood. Reach out to a sugar specialist hospital in Coimbatore, if you are noticing any signs of type 2 diabetes for an immediate diagnosis and treatment.

Fatigue and hunger:

Cells starved of glucose due to resistance experience energy exhaustion, causing fatigue. The body compensates by signaling hunger, craving more energy sources. 

Slow wound healing:

Impaired blood flow and nerve damage can hinder wound healing, increasing infection risk. 

What are the effects of type 2 diabetes on eye health?

Diabetes is one of the major causes of vision related problems, and at times it can also lead to vision loss over time if diabetes is not managed efficiently. Although short term effects of diabetes may cause blurred vision, and few long term effects include:

• Diabetic retinopathy
• Cataracts 
• Glaucoma
• Macular edema

The best way to avoid the development of vision problems is to manage Blood Sugar levels efficiently and get regular eye checks from the best eye specialists to seek immediate diagnosis of diabetes mellitus to avoid developing vision related concerns. 

What is the effect on blood vessels due to Type 2 diabetes?

When the blood sugar levels in the body increases, it can affect the elastic nature of the blood vessels making them more rigid and narrow. This can make blood flow difficult and can lead to high blood pressure. One of the main causes of heart disease is high blood pressure.

What is the effect of Type 2 diabetes on the nervous system?

One of the common effects of diabetes is nerve damage or  neuropathy, it can affect both voluntary and involuntary actions like digestion. And when the neuropathy advances much further it can cause numbness and pain in the areas like legs and hands. At times it can also affect upper legs.

What is the effect of Type 2 diabetes on feet?

When people with diabetes develop neuropathy it can affect the blood circulation to the feet. This can cause wounds to heal a little slower than usual. It can be complicated when proper treatment is not received. This is why it is important for people with diabetes to constantly check their feet for any unhealed injuries or wounds. 

What is the effect of Type 2 diabetes on the digestive system?

As mentioned previously, diabetes can cause neuropathy that may affect the functioning of the nervous system. Gastroparesis is a condition that can develop with unmanaged diabetes. It can cause symptoms like 

• Acid reflux
• Vomiting 
• Nausea
• Abdominal pain
• Bloating 

Increased hunger:

People with diabetes may have increased hunger, this condition is called polyphagia. It occurs as the body will have a difficult time in generating energy from glucose and it can make you hungry. Although eating more leads to more unprocessed sugar and it never relieves your hunger. 

What are the tips in the management of type 2 diabetes?

The good news is that type 2 diabetes can be managed. By implementing lifestyle changes and if needed taking medications, you can significantly improve your health and minimize diabetes type 2 complications. Here are the best tips to manage type 2 diabetes:

Healthy eating: 

Opt for a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein, while limiting sugary drinks and processed foods. 

Regular exercise:

Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise weekly to improve insulin insensitivity and blood sugar control. 

Weight management:

Losing even a small amount of weight can significantly improve blood sugar levels.

Medication management:

If you have been prescribed medications by your diabetes doctor, make sure to take them as per prescription. 

Blood sugar management:

Regularly monitor your blood sugar levels to understand your response to food, medication, and medication. 

Regular doctor visits:

Schedule regular checkups with your doctor to monitor your progress and adjust your treatment plan as needed. 

Can people with type 2 diabetes lead a normal life?

When people are diagnosed with type 2 diabetes the management needs to begin right away to help lead a normal life. With right management strategies you can keep your diabetes levels managed and also ensure a normal life. 

Is type 2 diabetes life threatening?

Type 2 diabetes in general is not a life threatening condition, but when it is not treated properly and the blood sugar levels are left unmanaged it can become life threatening. 

How to reduce blood sugar levels immediately?

Although there is no immediate way to reduce blood sugar levels.But in case your blood sugar levels are really high you may be recommended insulin to lower them gradually. Reach out to a diabetes specialist if your blood sugar levels are higher than normal.

Important Takeaway:

Living with type 2 diabetes requires ongoing commitment and adjustments. However, by understanding the internal shifts and taking charge of your health, you can empower yourself to live a fulfilling and active life. Consult the best diabetes hospital in Coimbatore, if you want to manage your diabetes efficiently with expert advice.

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