Have I got type 2 diabetes

Type 2 diabetes – formerly known as adult-onset diabetes – is a common form of diabetes which is characterised by a glucose (sugar) level which is too high in the blood, as well as a lack of insulin and insulin resistance.

Many of the common type 2 diabetes symptoms can be symptoms of other conditions, while in some cases, people may have type 2 diabetes without feeling unwell. This makes it all the more important to recognise symptoms which may be related to type 2 diabetes, and to receive a proper diagnosis. In this blog, we will point you in the right direction.

What are the symptoms of type 2 diabetes?

Type 2 diabetes – which is recognised as being a lifelong condition – can produce symptoms including feeling constantly thirsty; urinating more than usual; losing weight involuntarily; extreme fatigue; cuts taking longer to heal; blurred vision; and an itchy sensation around the penis or vagina.

In the UK, type 2 diabetes is recognised as the most common form, with over 90 per cent of adults with diabetes having type 2. There are certain higher risk factors attached to type 2 diabetes, which include having a parent, brother or sister with diabetes; being of black African, African Caribbean, Chinese or South Asian descent; being over the age of 40, or being obese.

Getting diagnosed with type 2 diabetes

If you experience one or several of the symptoms outlined above, you should see your doctor to receive a diagnosis.

You should note that a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes is commonly made when your blood or urine is being tested for something else entirely. After seeing your doctor for them to check your symptoms, as a first step, you could provide a urine sample, or be advised to take a blood test in order to check blood sugar levels. It typically takes no more than two days for the results of these tests to be made available.

If you do have diabetes, your doctor will inform you, and then discuss the next steps with you. You’ll be told about necessary medication, and required changes to your diet and lifestyle. You’ll also hear an explanation of exactly what diabetes is, giving you a better understanding of the condition which you have.

If, after reading about them in this blog, you feel that you are experiencing type 2 diabetes symptoms, book an appointment with your doctor.

Did you know that London Medical began as a diabetes clinic? Find out more about the London Diabetes Centre here.