Type 2 Diabetes Signs Symptoms Treatments

¶ … signs and symptoms of Type 2 diabetes?

Signs of Type 2 diabetes include dry mouth and excessive thirst, frequent urination, weight loss, fatigue, and headaches ("Symptoms of Type 2 Diabetes," n.d.). Unfortunately, many people are unaware that they have Type 2 diabetes and do not seek treatment early. The symptoms evolve slowly and emerge over time, which is why seeing a doctor is important.

What if you have a positive diagnosis for this disease, do you have to see specific health specialists?

Although a general practitioner can address many of the early signs and symptoms of the disease and help recommend treatments, courses of action, interventions, and lifestyle changes, specialists may be necessary as the disease progresses or if it was diagnosed in an advanced stage. Many of the tests administered to patients who have been diagnosed might need to be administered by specialists, but usually a primary or general practitioner is sufficient (Getaneh, n.d.).

How often do you need to monitor my blood sugar and what is the goal range?

It is important to use a blood glucose meter regularly, generally before or two hours after a meal. Twice a day might be recommended with patients in acute stages, but when medication is managing the disease, less frequent checking is fine. However, a doctor might have specific orders depending on the patient's condition. Target ranges depend on the person and age, with between 80 and 120 mg/dL of blood average for patients under 59 who are otherwise healthy and between 100 and 140 for those with ancillary diseases or who are aged 60 or older (American Diabetes Association, 2015).

4) What are the signs of low and high blood sugar? Does a person need to change their diet?

Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) leads to feeling irritable, tired, hungry, or unhappy ("Symptoms of Type 2 Diabetes," n.d.). High blood sugar can lead to feeling tired, thirsty, or nauseous. Changes in diet can help in both situations, with low blood sugar responding to intake of snacks.

5) Will they need insulin?

Patients with temporary or chronic high or low blood sugar do not necessarily need insulin, but they may if their doctor deems it necessary. Most patients will eventually require it if the disease progresses, and it can be used to control blood sugar levels.

6) What are the complications of not seeking immediate medical help?

If medical attention is not sought immediately, complications of diabetes type 2 can be severe, including heart disease, nerve damage, kidney damage, eye damage, blood vessel disease, foot damage, hearing impairment, and more ("Complications," n.d.).

7) Are there any available resources to assist me if I have trouble paying for diabetes supplies?

There may be some financial assistance available to persons with Diabetes Type 2, such as pharmaceutical assistance programs like RxAssist, NeedyMeds, and Partnership for Prescription Assistance (American Diabetes Association, 2015). The person's insurer may cover some of the supplies, too.