Call / Whatsapp
+918447748545

Published on: Aug 03, 2024
3 minute read
By: Secondmedic Expert

Understanding Type 2 Diabetes: Causes, Symptoms, And Diagnosis

Consult Endocrinologists

Type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Unlike type 1 diabetes, which is typically diagnosed in childhood and involves the body’s inability to produce insulin, type 2 diabetes is often related to lifestyle factors and usually develops in adults. However, it's increasingly being diagnosed in younger individuals as well. Understanding type 2 diabetes is crucial for managing and preventing this prevalent disease.

What is Type 2 Diabetes?

Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body becomes resistant to insulin or when the pancreas fails to produce enough insulin. Insulin is a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels. When insulin doesn't work correctly or isn't produced in sufficient quantities, glucose builds up in the bloodstream, leading to high blood sugar levels. Over time, this can cause serious health problems, including heart disease, vision loss, and kidney disease.

Causes of Type 2 Diabetes

The exact cause of type 2 diabetes is not fully understood, but several factors can increase the risk of developing the condition:

1. Genetics: A family history of diabetes can increase your risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Specific genes can make you more susceptible to the disease.

2. Obesity: Excess weight, especially around the abdomen, is a major risk factor. Fat tissue can cause the body to become more resistant to insulin.

3. Physical Inactivity: Lack of exercise contributes to obesity and makes it harder for the body to use insulin effectively.

4. Unhealthy Diet: A diet high in processed foods, sugary beverages, and unhealthy fats can contribute to insulin resistance and obesity.

5. Age: The risk of type 2 diabetes increases with age, particularly after age 45. However, it's becoming more common in children, adolescents, and younger adults.

6. Ethnicity: Certain ethnic groups, including African Americans, Hispanic/Latino Americans, Native Americans, and Asian Americans, have a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

7. High Blood Pressure and Abnormal Cholesterol Levels: Both conditions are linked to an increased risk of type 2 diabetes.

Symptoms of Type 2 Diabetes

The symptoms of type 2 diabetes can develop slowly. In fact, you can have type 2 diabetes for years and not know it. Common symptoms include:

1. Increased Thirst and Frequent Urination: Excess sugar in your bloodstream causes fluid to be pulled from tissues, leading to increased thirst. As a result, you may drink and urinate more than usual.

2. Increased Hunger: Without enough insulin to move sugar into your cells, your muscles and organs become depleted of energy, leading to increased hunger.

3. Weight Loss: Despite eating more, you may lose weight because your body is unable to use glucose properly.

4. Fatigue: When your cells are deprived of sugar, you may become tired and irritable.

5. Blurred Vision: High blood sugar levels can cause fluid to be pulled from the lenses of your eyes, affecting your ability to focus.

6. Slow-Healing Sores or Frequent Infections: Type 2 diabetes affects your ability to heal and fight infections.

7. Darkened Skin: Some people with type 2 diabetes develop areas of darkened skin, usually in the armpits and neck. This condition, called acanthosis nigricans, may be a sign of insulin resistance.

Diagnosing Type 2 Diabetes

Early detection of type 2 diabetes is essential for managing the condition and preventing complications. Here are the common methods used to diagnose type 2 diabetes:

1. A1C Test: This blood test measures your average blood sugar level over the past two to three months. An A1C level of 6.5% or higher on two separate tests indicates diabetes.

2. Fasting Blood Sugar Test: After an overnight fast, a blood sample is taken. A fasting blood sugar level of 126 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) or higher on two separate tests indicates diabetes.

3. Oral Glucose Tolerance Test: After fasting overnight, you drink a sugary liquid at the doctor's office. Blood sugar levels are tested periodically for the next two hours. A blood sugar level of 200 mg/dL or higher indicates diabetes.

4. Random Blood Sugar Test: Regardless of when you last ate, a random blood sugar level of 200 mg/dL or higher suggests diabetes, especially if you have symptoms of diabetes.

Managing Type 2 Diabetes

While there is no cure for type 2 diabetes, it can be managed through lifestyle changes, medication, and regular monitoring. Here are some effective strategies:

1. Healthy Eating: Focus on a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Avoid sugary foods and beverages.

2. Regular Exercise: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity, such as brisk walking, each week. Strength training exercises are also beneficial.

3. Weight Management: Losing excess weight can help control blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of complications.

4. Blood Sugar Monitoring: Regularly check your blood sugar levels as advised by your doctor. This can help you understand how different foods, activities, and medications affect your blood sugar.

5. Medication: If lifestyle changes aren't enough to control your blood sugar, your doctor may prescribe medications that help the body use insulin more effectively or produce more insulin.

6. Regular Check-ups: Visit your doctor regularly to monitor your condition and adjust your treatment plan as needed.

Preventing Type 2 Diabetes

Prevention is key to reducing the burden of type 2 diabetes. Even if you have risk factors, you can take steps to prevent or delay the onset of the disease:

1. Maintain a Healthy Weight: Aim for a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise.

2. Stay Active: Incorporate physical activity into your daily routine. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate activity most days of the week.

3. Eat Healthy Foods: Choose whole, unprocessed foods and limit sugary and high-fat foods.

4. Avoid Smoking: Smoking increases the risk of diabetes and its complications.

5. Limit Alcohol: If you drink alcohol, do so in moderation.

6. Get Regular Check-ups: If you have risk factors for diabetes, such as a family history or obesity, get regular check-ups to monitor your blood sugar levels.

Conclusion

Understanding type 2 diabetes is the first step toward managing and preventing this common condition. By knowing the causes, recognizing the symptoms, and getting timely diagnosis and treatment, you can lead a healthy and fulfilling life. Remember, lifestyle changes play a crucial role in managing type 2 diabetes, and small steps can make a big difference in your overall health.

Consult Endocrinologists

Read FAQs

A. The main causes of type 2 diabetes include genetics, obesity, physical inactivity, an unhealthy diet, and age. Additional risk factors include high blood pressure, abnormal cholesterol levels, and certain ethnic backgrounds.

A. Common symptoms of type 2 diabetes include increased thirst and frequent urination, increased hunger, fatigue, blurred vision, slow-healing sores, frequent infections, and unexplained weight loss.

A. Type 2 diabetes is diagnosed using tests such as the A1C test, fasting blood sugar test, oral glucose tolerance test, and random blood sugar test. These tests measure blood sugar levels to determine if they are within the diabetic range.

Read Blog

Why Silent Heart Attacks Are Rising Among Indians Under 40

Introduction

Heart attacks have long been considered a condition affecting older adults. But over the past few years, a worrying trend has emerged in India—silent heart attacks among people under the age of 40 are on the rise. These are heart attacks that occur with little or no obvious symptoms, making them especially dangerous.

So why is this happening? What are the reasons behind this silent epidemic? In this blog, we’ll explore the growing concern of silent heart attacks in young Indians, their causes, signs to watch for, and how you can protect yourself and your loved ones.

What is a Silent Heart Attack?

A silent heart attack, medically known as a silent myocardial infarction, happens when the blood flow to a part of the heart is blocked, but the usual symptoms like chest pain or discomfort are missing. Many people mistake it for indigestion, fatigue, or anxiety, and don’t realize they’ve had a heart attack until much later.

By the time it's diagnosed, some damage has already been done to the heart. That’s what makes it more dangerous—you may not even know it happened until it’s too late.

Alarming Trend: Younger Indians at Risk

India is seeing more cases of heart attacks among people in their 20s and 30s. In the past, these were considered rare. But now, it’s becoming increasingly common, especially in urban areas.

Here are some facts that highlight this trend:

Nearly 1 in 5 heart attack patients in Indian hospitals are under 40.
Many are fit-looking, working professionals with no known heart problems.
In several cases, the first sign of heart disease is the heart attack itself—and sometimes, it’s silent.

So, what’s causing this shift?

Top 7 Reasons Why Silent Heart Attacks Are Rising Among Indians Under 40

1. Unhealthy Lifestyle

Fast-paced lives, late-night work schedules, poor diet, and lack of sleep have become the norm. Add junk food, sugar-loaded drinks, and smoking to the mix, and you’ve got a recipe for disaster.

2. High Stress Levels

Chronic stress increases blood pressure and leads to inflammation in the arteries. Young professionals facing pressure in jobs, studies, or family life are often silently harming their heart health.

3. Sedentary Habits

Many people, especially in IT and corporate jobs, spend long hours sitting without movement. Lack of exercise is directly linked to a higher risk of heart disease.

4. Diabetes & Hypertension at a Young Age

More Indians are developing type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure in their 20s and 30s, often without knowing it. These are major risk factors for heart attacks.

5. Smoking and Alcohol

Smoking, especially among men under 40, is still common in India. It narrows blood vessels and damages the heart. Regular alcohol use also increases risk when combined with poor lifestyle choices.

6. Family History of Heart Disease

If heart problems run in your family, your risk is automatically higher—even if you feel healthy. Many young people ignore this factor.

7. Lack of Regular Health Check-ups

Young adults often believe they are “too young” to get sick and avoid check-ups. Silent heart issues can go undetected for years without tests like ECG, cholesterol, or blood pressure checks.

Signs You May Be Having a Silent Heart Attack

Since silent heart attacks don’t cause obvious chest pain, you have to be more alert. Here are some subtle signs to watch for:

Mild discomfort in the chest, back, or jaw
Unexplained fatigue or tiredness
Dizziness or lightheadedness
Shortness of breath, even with small activity
Cold sweats
Nausea or feeling like you have indigestion

These symptoms may come and go, so many people ignore them. But if you feel “not quite right”, especially if you have risk factors, don’t ignore it—get checked immediately.

How to Protect Yourself

Preventing silent heart attacks starts with knowing your risks and taking proactive steps to stay healthy:

1. Get Regular Health Check-Ups

Annual heart screenings, cholesterol checks, and blood pressure monitoring can catch problems early—even if you feel fine.

2. Eat a Heart-Healthy Diet

Focus on fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Avoid processed foods, excess salt, and sugary drinks.

3. Exercise 30 Minutes Daily

A brisk walk, yoga, swimming, or cycling can strengthen your heart and improve blood flow.

4. Quit Smoking

It’s one of the biggest risk factors for early heart disease. If you smoke, get help to quit today.

5. Manage Stress

Take time out daily to relax. Deep breathing, meditation, hobbies, or talking to someone can help reduce stress.

6. Limit Alcohol

Cut back on drinking, especially binge-drinking on weekends, which is common among young adults.

7. Know Your Family History

If heart disease runs in your family, be extra careful and talk to your doctor about your risks.

When to See a Doctor

If you feel even mild symptoms or just feel unusually tired or breathless without reason, it’s better to get a check-up. Don’t wait—heart issues in young people can be caught early with the right medical help.

You can book a cardiology consultation online and get lab tests done from the comfort of your home. Early detection can save your life.

Conclusion

The rising cases of silent heart attacks among Indians under 40 are a wake-up call. With fast lives, unhealthy habits, and silent symptoms, many young people are unknowingly at risk. But the good news is, heart disease is often preventable with simple lifestyle changes and timely check-ups.

If you’re under 40, don’t ignore your heart health. Take action today to protect yourself and your future.

Worried about your heart health? Book a cardiology check-up now and understand why silent heart attacks are rising among Indians under 40.