Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is commonly referred to as “high blood sugar” or “diabetes” and accounts for about 90% of all diabetes cases, making it the most common form of the disease. In this condition, the pancreas still produces sufficient insulin, but the body’s cells become increasingly resistant to the hormone. As a result, blood sugar levels rise.

Glucose can no longer effectively enter the cells and instead accumulates in the bloodstream, which over time can damage blood vessels and nerves. In many cases, adopting a healthy lifestyle and modifying harmful habits can significantly improve the condition.

Type 2 Diabetes Symptoms

Symptoms can be divided into acute and long-term symptoms.

Acute Symptoms

• Excessive thirst and frequent urination

• Difficulty concentrating, fatigue, and weakness

• Vision problems

• Itchy and dry skin

• Increased susceptibility to infections

Long-Term Symptoms

• Nerve damage (polyneuropathy)

• Constipation or diarrhea

• Damage to small blood vessels and circulation disorders

• Damage to large blood vessels

Causes of Type 2 Diabetes

In many cases, type 2 diabetes is linked to genetic predisposition. However, obesity and lack of physical activity also play a major role. Because the symptoms are often non-specific, the condition is frequently diagnosed during routine examinations.

In addition to obesity, sedentary lifestyle, and genetic factors, age is another important risk factor. As people age, insulin effectiveness can decline, making older adults more likely to develop type 2 diabetes.

Type 2 Diabetes: Effective Medications

To maintain stable blood sugar levels, the following medications are commonly used:

• Insulin: If blood sugar levels cannot be controlled with oral medications and lifestyle changes, insulin therapy is initiated. It is one of the most well-known treatments and can be administered in various ways.

• Metformin: This medication lowers blood sugar levels and is often prescribed at the time of diagnosis.

• Alpha-glucosidase inhibitors: These affect enzymes in the small intestine responsible for breaking down sugars.

• Sulfonylureas: These stimulate insulin release and are only effective if the pancreas still produces insulin.

• Glinides: Similar to sulfonylureas, they stimulate insulin secretion but act quickly and for a shorter duration.

• Thiazolidinediones (glitazones): These improve insulin sensitivity, allowing glucose to enter cells more effectively.

Treatment Approaches

Managing type 2 diabetes follows a stepwise approach. Lifestyle changes, including weight loss, diet modification, and increased physical activity, can significantly improve the condition. However, lifestyle changes alone are not always sufficient, and medications and/or insulin therapy may be required.

Stepwise Treatment Plan

• Step 1: Weight loss, dietary changes, physical activity

• Step 2: Monotherapy with an antidiabetic drug (often metformin)

• Step 3: Combination therapy with two medications or insulin

• Step 4: Intensive insulin therapy