There are three types of diabetes and diabetes type 2 is the most common, comprising almost 95% of all diabetes cases. Now, what is diabetes type 2? Diabetes type 2 is a condition where the cells are actually resisting insulin. When glucose can’t be transported into cells, the cells are deprived of energy and a lot of fluid is needed to balance the glucose level in the blood.

What are the causes of diabetes type 2? Actually, diabetes type 2 is caused by accumulation of unhealthy lifestyle and diet over the years plus genetic predisposition that runs in the family. They are classified into various factors comprising age and even certain races that have increased risk of having diabetes type 2. One of the causes is obesity. For people who have obesity, the fatty issues are more resistant towards insulin. This comprises people who have an ‘apple’ body, meaning to say having excessive fat around the abdomen. People who are inactive stores excessive glucose inside their body and causing their sugar level to rise up very fast compared to those who use up glucose as energy in their physical activities. Diabetes type 2 also strikes at certain groups of people, such as older people and also people who have family history of having diabetes type 2. More puzzling, diabetes type 2 is prevalent among American Africans, American Indians, Hispanics, and Asian Americans. There are also certain races around the world that has increased risk of having diabetes type 2. People who have heart disease such as stroke, angina and heart attack are at risk of having diabetes type 2. Lastly, women especially those who have gestational diabetes during their pregnancy might also have diabetes type 2 after that. Unhealthy lifestyle such as no exercise, obesity, unhealthy diet (high fat, high salt), high blood cholesterol and smoking are just a few causes that increase the risk of having diabetes type 2.

There are many common as well specific symptoms and signs pertaining diabetes type 2. A person having diabetes type 2 will be thirstier than usual as a lot of fluid is needed to balance the high level of glucose in the blood. He/she also has frequent urination as excessive glucose has to be taken out of the body. Blurred visions also occur because fluid has to be ‘squeezed’ out of the lenses of the eyes to compensate for the lack of water to balance out the level of glucose. That person will also feel tired most of the time as glucose can’t be transported into the cells as energy source. Other symptoms and signs of diabetes 2 also include constant itching and slow healing of injuries/wounds. A person who has diabetes type 2 has an obvious symptom/sign which is dark skin under creases on the body especially the neck and armpits.

If you found any such symptoms on you, it’s better to go for a proper medical check-up instead of guessing and feeling sorry afterwards.