Type 2 diabetes

Type 2 diabetes most often occurs in adults and develops much more slowly. This may frequently be over a period of several years (particularly if a person is overweight).

Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body is unable to properly use the insulin, either because important cells in the body will not allow insulin in (known as ‘insulin resistance’) or because not enough insulin is produced, and sometimes a combination of the two. As a result, the glucose stays in the blood at abnormally high levels. This type of diabetes mostly occurs in older people; however it is gradually becoming more common in younger people, particularly where there is a family history of type 2 diabetes.

Type 2 diabetes carries the risk of diabetes complications as the disease progresses.

What are the symptoms of type 2 diabetes?

Many people may not know they have type 2 diabetes as the symptoms can often go unnoticed. Talk to your doctor, nurse, pharmacist or dietitian if you notice any of the following:

• Tiredness and fatigue
• Thrush or genital itching
• Aching legs
• Infections
• Dry eyes or blurred vision
• Excessive thirst
• Excessive urination, especially at night
• Unexplained weight loss