Type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition in which the body does not produce enough insulin or does not properly use the insulin it produces. Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that helps the body use glucose (sugar) for energy. When there is not enough insulin or the body does not use it properly, glucose builds up in the blood, leading to high blood sugar levels.
Common symptoms of type 2 diabetes include increased thirst and hunger, frequent urination, fatigue, blurred vision, and slow wound healing. When left untreated, type 2 diabetes can cause long-term health complications including blindness, nerve damage, kidney disease, and heart disease.
The exact cause of type 2 diabetes is unknown, but genetics, lifestyle, and environmental factors all may play a role. Risk factors for type 2 diabetes include being overweight, having a family history of diabetes, and having a sedentary lifestyle.
Type 2 diabetes is usually managed through lifestyle changes including healthy eating, increased physical activity, and weight loss. Depending on the severity of the condition, medications or insulin therapy may also be used to manage blood sugar levels.