Overview

Causes

Type 2 happens when the body becomes resistant to insulin or when the pancreas cannot make enough. This may be due to a person's genes and habits.

Risk Factors

Type 2 is more common in people with obesity and those over 45 years of age. People who are American Indian, Alaska natives, Black, and Hispanic are at higher risk. Some other common risks are:

  • Prediabetes—slightly high glucose levels
  • Metabolic syndrome —fat around the belly and high cholesterol, glucose, and blood pressure
  • Polycystic ovary syndrome
  • Past gestational diabetes or having a baby that weighs over 9 pounds at birth
  • Poor eating habits
  • Lack of exercise
  • Smoking
  • High blood pressure
  • Taking certain medicines, such as glucocorticoids or thiazides

SymptomsandDiagnosis

Symptoms

Most people do not have problems right away. Others may have:

  • Urinating more often
  • Being very thirsty
  • Hunger
  • Blurry eyesight
  • Weight loss
  • Being very tired
  • Frequent infections

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about symptoms and past health. A physical exam will be done. Diabetes is diagnosed with blood tests that check for high glucose levels. More than 1 test may be done.

These blood tests will also be done to find out whether it is type 1 or type 2:

  • Insulin level or C-peptide tests to see how much insulin is being made by the pancreas
  • Tests that look for antibodies that are working against the pancreas

Treatments

Treatment

The goal is to keep glucose levels at close to normal levels. This can be done with:

Healthy Habits

Healthy habits can help manage type 2, such as:

  • Testing blood glucose levels often
  • Working with a dietitian to make a meal plan that will help keep blood glucose levels normal
  • Getting enough exercise
  • Reaching a healthy weight

Medicine

Some people may need medicine to lower insulin resistance. There are many types. is a common medicine that is given.

People who cannot manage type 2 with healthy habits and medicine may need insulin. It will replace the insulin hormone that their body does not make. It can be given by injection, inhaler, or by a pump that gives it in small amounts during the day.

Prevention

A person may not be able to lower the risk of diabetes. Healthy habits may help, such as exercising, staying at a healthy weight, and eating right.

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.

Edits to original content made by Denver Health.