What is type 2 diabetes?
In a person with type 2 diabetes, cells in the body do not respond to insulin properly. Insulin is a hormone that reduces blood sugar (glucose) levels by stimulating the body to utilize glucose for energy. The poor response to insulin in someone with type 2 diabetes results in blood glucose levels that are higher than normal. The cause of Type 2 diabetes is unknown, but heredity and obesity may play a role. Type 2 diabetes usually begins in adulthood, whereas type 1 diabetes usually starts during childhood. About 300 out of every 100,000 people develop type 2 diabetes every year in the US.

What are the symptoms of type 2 diabetes?
Symptoms of type 2 diabetes include blurred vision, dizziness, excessive fatigue, excessive thirst, faintness, frequent urination, headaches, increased appetite, nausea, excessive sleepiness, and weight loss.

How does the doctor treat type 2 diabetes?
Treatment for type 2 diabetes may include a diabetic diet, weight loss, regular exercise, monitoring the blood sugar, insulin, and oral medications for diabetes.