Diabetes mellitus type 2
Diabetes mellitus type 2 (pronounced: dye-uh-bee-teez mel-i-tuhss type two) is a chronic condition that affects the way the body processes blood sugar (glucose). It is characterized by high blood sugar, insulin resistance, and relative lack of insulin.
Etymology
The term "diabetes" is derived from the Greek word "diabainein", which means "to pass through". This refers to the excessive amount of urine produced by individuals with the condition. "Mellitus" is Latin for "sweetened with honey", referring to the presence of sugar in the urine and blood of people with diabetes. The term "type 2" distinguishes it from type 1 diabetes, in which the body does not produce insulin.
Symptoms
Common symptoms of diabetes mellitus type 2 include frequent urination, increased thirst, constant hunger, weight loss, tiredness, blurred vision, slow healing of wounds, and frequent infections.
Causes
Type 2 diabetes primarily occurs as a result of obesity and lack of exercise. It is more common in older age, but is now becoming more common in children, adolescents and younger adults due to rising levels of obesity, physical inactivity and poor diet.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is by blood tests such as fasting plasma glucose, oral glucose tolerance test, or glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c).
Treatment
Management of type 2 diabetes focuses on lifestyle changes, lowering other cardiovascular risk factors, and maintaining blood glucose levels in the normal range. This can be achieved through a combination of diet, exercise and use of medication.
Related Terms
- Insulin resistance
- Hyperglycemia
- Hypoglycemia
- Glycated hemoglobin
- Oral glucose tolerance test
- Fasting plasma glucose
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