what is type two diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition that occurs when the body cannot use insulin properly or does not produce enough insulin. Insulin is a hormone that regulates the movement of sugar into cells to be used for energy. As a result, too much glucose stays in the blood, leading to high blood sugar levels. Type 2 diabetes is the most common type of diabetes and can cause various health problems, such as heart disease, kidney disease, and stroke. Symptoms of type 2 diabetes include urinating often, feeling very thirsty, feeling very hungry, extreme fatigue, blurry vision, cuts/bruises that are slow to heal, and tingling, pain, or numbness in the hands/feet. Lifestyle changes, such as losing weight, eating well, and exercising, can help manage the disease. Simple blood tests can diagnose type 2 diabetes, and early detection and treatment can decrease the risk of developing complications. Risk factors for type 2 diabetes include being overweight or obese, having a family history of diabetes, being age 45 or older, and being African American, Hispanic/Latino, American Indian, Asian American, or Pacific Islander