With Type 2 diabetes, the body's ability to use glucose is impaired. Insulin is a substance which is used by the body to help facility the movement of glucose from the blood system into the cells of the body. The insulin used in this process is produced in the pancreas and those with Type 2 diabetes either produce too little insulin or produce plenty of insulin but the cells are unable to use it. This is known as "insulin resistant".
Because of this the level of glucose builds up in the body and is excreted from the body in urine. This extreme urination often causes dehydration and the dehydration without replacing the fluids can lead to a diabetic coma also known as hyperglycemic hyperosmolar nonketotic syndrome
The symptoms of this disease which usually leads a person to see their medical professional includes extreme thirst as well as excessive urination. Occasionally diagnosis is made after the person ends up in the hospital after suffering an episode such as diabetic coma.
High blood glucose levels overtime can damage the nerves, the small blood vessels in the eyes, kidneys and the heart leaving the person predisposed to atherosclerosis (hardening) of the large arteries that can cause heart attack and stroke as well as many other severe complications.
This condition is treated by medication, dietary changes and exercise and in some cases can be treated with dietary changes and exercise alone. Those who are obese or overweight need to also lose weight. The diabetic needs to daily monitor the level of blood glucose in the body using a portable glucometer which can take the reading from a small drop of blood from the finger.
Both types of diabetes mellitus are conditions or diseases which have no cure and last a life time. But with proper medication and other lifestyle changes Type 2 diabetes is a disease that can be managed well but involves a life time commitment to regular professional as well as self care.
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