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Around 30% of people in England with type 2 diabetes are not aware they have it. That’s around 1 million people. Furthermore, around 10% of all adults in England are estimated to have pre-diabetes, the precursor to diabetes.
Source: Office for National Statistics (ONS) Health Survey for England - data between 2013-2019.
Understanding Type 2 Diabetes and How to Manage It
Type 2 diabetes significantly increases the risk of blood vessel disease, including heart attacks and strokes. But because it doesn’t always have obvious symptoms, many people are unaware they have type 2 diabetes or prediabetes, a condition that often precedes diabetes. The good news is that with a simple HbA1c blood test, you can find out your risk and take steps to improve your long-term health.
What is Type 2 Diabetes?
Type 2 diabetes occurs when your body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn’t produce enough of it. Insulin is the hormone responsible for regulating blood sugar levels. When blood sugar remains consistently high, it can cause serious damage to your blood vessels, nerves, and organs over time.
Signs and Symptoms
Type 2 diabetes can develop slowly, and in many cases, there may be no obvious symptoms. However, some common signs include:
Increased thirst
Frequent urination
Unexplained weight loss
Fatigue
Blurred vision
Slow healing of wounds
If you experience any of these symptoms or have risk factors, it’s important to speak with your GP about getting tested.
Who is at Risk?
Certain factors can increase your risk of developing type 2 diabetes, including:
Being overweight or obese
Leading a sedentary lifestyle
Having a family history of diabetes
Being over the age of 40 (or over 25 if you’re from a South Asian, African-Caribbean, or Black African background)
Having high blood pressure or high cholesterol
Having a history of gestational diabetes
Diagnosing Type 2 Diabetes and Prediabetes
An HbA1c blood test measures your average blood sugar levels over the past two to three months. This test can diagnose both type 2 diabetes and prediabetes, giving you the opportunity to take action before complications arise.
How to Manage Type 2 Diabetes
The key to managing type 2 diabetes lies in lifestyle changes and, when necessary, medications. Here’s how you can take control:
1. Lifestyle Changes
Healthy Eating: Focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Limit sugary and processed foods to help control blood sugar levels.
Regular Exercise: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity per week, such as brisk walking, swimming, or cycling. Physical activity helps your body use insulin more effectively.
Weight Management: Losing even a small amount of weight can make a big difference in controlling blood sugar levels and improving overall health.
Quit Smoking: Smoking increases the risk of complications like heart disease, so stopping is an important step for better health.
2. Medications
For some people, lifestyle changes alone may not be enough to manage type 2 diabetes. In these cases, your doctor may prescribe medications such as metformin to help lower blood sugar levels. Other medications, like SGLT2 inhibitors or GLP-1 receptor agonists, may also be recommended based on your individual needs.
Preventing Complications
Managing type 2 diabetes effectively can help prevent serious complications, including:
Cardiovascular disease
Kidney damage (nephropathy)
Nerve damage (neuropathy)
Eye damage (retinopathy)
Foot problems that can lead to ulcers or infections
Regular check-ups with your GP, along with routine monitoring of your blood sugar levels, cholesterol, and blood pressure, are essential for staying on top of your health.
See one of our experienced private GPs in Henley or Reading about your diabetes concerns
If you’re concerned about type 2 diabetes or think you might be at risk, don’t wait. Speak with your GP about getting an HbA1c blood test and take proactive steps to improve your health. Early diagnosis and management can significantly reduce the risk of complications and improve your quality of life.