Diabetes Specialist

What is Type 2 Diabetes?

Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how the body processes blood sugar (glucose), either becoming resistant to it or not producing enough. It can lead to serious health complications if not properly managed, but with the proper knowledge, care, and lifestyle adjustments, it can be controlled and prevented in many cases. Here's what everyone should know about diabetes:

Symptoms of Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 Diabetes manifests itself in an array of symptoms- from excessive thirst and hunger to the slow healing of wounds.

Due to high blood sugar levels, people with Type 2 diabetes have excessive thirst and dry mouth. This increase in blood sugar also causes the kidneys to work harder—by creating more urine—to remove excess glucose from the blood. One may also experience blurry vision due to the build-up of fluids in the eyes.

Type 2 Diabetes Risk Factors

Type 2 Diabetes may be rooted in the family history of such an ailment. A sedentary lifestyle, poor diet, obesity, age, and certain medications can also play a key role.

Complications and Dangers of Type 2 Diabetes

The major problem with diabetes is vascular proliferation. This means disturbed circulation, which affects ALL organs.

Here is the effect of Type 2 Diabetes on each system of the body:

1. 1. Cardiovascular Disease:
   

   Diabetes increases the risk of heart attack, stroke, and high blood pressure due to damage to blood vessels. Diabetes quadruples the risk of a heart attack

2. 2. Kidney Damage (Nephropathy):
   

   High blood sugar can damage the kidneys over time, potentially leading to kidney failure.

3. 3. Nerve Damage (Neuropathy):
   

   Elevated blood sugar levels can damage nerves, particularly in the legs and feet, leading to pain, numbness, and even amputations if left untreated.

4. 4. Vision Problems:
   

   High blood sugar can damage the blood vessels in the eyes, leading to diabetic retinopathy and potential blindness.

5. 5. Skin Conditions:
   

   People with diabetes are at greater risk for skin infections, fungal infections, and other dermatological issues.

6. 6. Mental Health:
   

   Diabetes can increase the risk of depression and anxiety, mainly due to long-term management demands.

7. 7. Male impotence.

Managing Type 2 Diabetes

If you have been diagnosed with diabetes, there are many means of managing the condition.

If medications are deemed appropriate, Dr. Kermani will discuss those options with you.

Additionally, exercise helps improve insulin sensitivity and maintain healthy blood sugar levels. Maintaining a healthy weight can prevent or delay the onset of Type 2 diabetes. Losing a small amount (5-10% of body weight) can have significant health benefits. In establishing your care plan, Dr. Kermani will determine your best intensity and frequency based on age and other medical factors. Stress management techniques (like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises) are also pivotal.

Lifestyle modifications have also proven to be a major supporter of managing Type 2 Diabetes. Focusing on a balanced diet rich in whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats, limiting processed foods, sugary snacks, and refined carbohydrates, controlling portion sizes, avoiding overeating, and choosing high-fiber foods all help manage blood sugar levels. Managing smoking and alcohol consumption is also key.

Dr. Kermani believes that with the proper support, treatment, and lifestyle changes, people can manage their Type 2 Diabetes to improve their quality of life.

If you have or a loved one has any concerns about Type 2 Diabetes, please call our office at (702)435-1995 and one of our friendly staff will schedule an appointment for you to see Dr. Kermani at our office in the Southern Highlands and Las Vegas area.