Diebetes type 2

Type 2 diabetes (DM2) is a condition in which the body can no longer regulate blood sugar levels properly. Normally, insulin keeps blood sugar levels within healthy limits. In DM2, the pancreas often still produces insulin, sometimes in large quantities. However, due to insulin resistance - a reduced sensitivity to insulin - glucose is not properly absorbed into cells, ultimately leading to elevated blood glucose levels.

DM2 develops gradually and is often linked to factors such as unhealthy diet, obesity, stress and too little exercise. However, heredity also plays a role. Because dysregulated blood sugar levels are harmful to the body, proper treatment is essential.

Risk of type 2 diabetes

Anyone can type 2 diabetes get (diabetes). However, you do have a higher chance if you are over 45 years old. And have 1 or more of these things in the process:

• You are overweight, especially around the belly.
• You have a mother, father, brother or sister with type 2 diabetes.
• You have high blood pressure or elevated cholesterol.
• You had gestational diabetes during a previous pregnancy.
• You smoke.
• You come from a Hindu, Turkish, Moroccan or Surinamese background.
• You take drugs such as prednisone or drugs for psychosis, which are known to increase the risk of type 2 diabetes.

Consequences of diabetes 2

Diabetes can have consequences throughout the body: complications. These complications occur mainly when blood sugar levels are frequently too high for long periods of time. In addition, high blood pressure and abnormalities in blood fats, such as increased cholesterol levels, can contribute to the damage. Most complications are caused by damage to large and small blood vessels, as well as to the nervous system. Possible complications include:

• Poorer visibility
• Kidney problems
• Heart disease
• Foot problems
• Sexual problems, such as erectile dysfunction

Treatment of diabetes 2

A healthy lifestyle is essential in type 2 diabetes. By living healthy, your body will start functioning better, and you may need less or even no medication. You have a lot of influence yourself. Healthy living means:

• Healthy eating and drinking
• Sufficient exercise
• Losing weight if you are overweight
• Quitting smoking
• Enough relaxation and a good night's sleep

Sometimes a healthy lifestyle is not enough to control blood sugar levels. In that case, there are several types of medications available that lower blood glucose. Often, these drugs are prescribed as pills and sometimes used in combinations.

Diabetes consultation

The practice has a special diabetes consultation hour for patients with type 2 diabetes. This consultation hour is supervised by the practice assistant in close cooperation with the GP. During the consultation hour, you are given advice and information about diabetes, its risks and possible consequences. In addition, blood tests are used to check blood sugar levels, cholesterol and kidney function.

For more information, see www.diabetes.nl or www.thuisarts.nl.