Type 2 Diabetes: Early Signs, Risks and Healthy Habits
Type 2 diabetes develops when the body does not use insulin properly, so sugar builds up in the blood. Early signs are easy to miss, but a simple blood test can detect it, and healthy habits plus treatment prescribed by your doctor can keep blood sugar under control.
What Is Type 2 Diabetes?
In type 2 diabetes the body either does not make enough insulin or the cells do not respond to it well (insulin resistance). Insulin moves sugar from the blood into the cells for energy, so when it does not work properly, blood sugar stays high. Over time, high blood sugar can damage the eyes, kidneys, nerves and heart.
Early Signs to Watch For
Many people have no symptoms at all, which is why testing matters for anyone at risk.
Who Is at Higher Risk?
- Excess weight, especially around the waist
- A parent or sibling with diabetes
- Being age 45 or older
- Low physical activity
- Prediabetes or high blood pressure
- Gestational diabetes in the past
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
- Sexual problems in men; read how diabetes affects erectile dysfunction
Healthy Habits That Help
- Move for about 30 minutes most days of the week
- Fill half your plate with vegetables, with whole grains and lean protein
- Choose water instead of sugary drinks
- Sleep 7 to 9 hours; poor sleep affects blood sugar
- Attend regular check-ups and blood tests
- Sugary drinks and sweets
- Refined carbohydrates such as white bread in large portions
- Long periods of sitting
- Skipping your prescribed medicines or tests
Read more simple habits in natural ways to improve overall health and preventive health tips for adults.
Treatment and Monitoring
Treatment is individual. It may involve lifestyle changes alone or tablets, injectable medicines or insulin prescribed by your doctor. Never start, stop or change a diabetes medicine without medical advice, and ask your doctor how and when to check your blood sugar.
- You feel very unwell with vomiting, stomach pain or fast breathing
- You are confused, very drowsy or have fruity-smelling breath
- Your blood sugar is very high or very low and not improving
Looking for diabetes care?
Browse our diabetes care category. Diabetes medicines must only be used as prescribed by your doctor.
Diabetes careFrequently Asked Questions
Can type 2 diabetes be reversed?
Some people reach remission with weight loss and lifestyle change, but it needs ongoing monitoring. Talk to your doctor before changing treatment.
What is prediabetes?
Prediabetes means blood sugar is higher than normal but not yet in the diabetes range. Lifestyle changes can often prevent it from progressing.
How often should I be tested?
Your doctor will advise based on your age and risk factors. Many adults at risk are tested at least every few years.
More Reading
Sources: American Diabetes Association (ADA) Standards of Care; World Health Organization (WHO) diabetes fact sheet; U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on type 2 diabetes.