What is type 2 diabetes?
DiabetesDiabetes is a life-long metabolic disease where the body either doesn't make enough insulin or can't use the insulin it makes. This causes high blood sugar levels. Diabetes can cause damage to various organs over time if not properly managed develops if the body can’t make enough insulin. After you eat, your body breaks down food into glucose (a type of sugar). Insulin is a hormone that helps your body absorb sugar from the blood. If you have type 2 diabetes, the glucose in your blood can’t convert to energy. As a result, you have too much sugar in your blood. Type 2 diabetes can’t be ‘cured’. But, you can manage your condition with a healthy lifestyle. Some people may need medicine as well.
What will my GP do now about my type 2 diabetes?
Your GPGeneral Practitioner will work with you to develop a treatment plan. Your GP will also help you to:
- Learn more about your condition
- Complete your National Diabetes Service Scheme (NDSS) registration
- Develop targets for your blood sugar levels
- Learn about healthy lifestyle changes
- Learn about low blood sugar and how to prevent or manage this
What will my GP do in the future for my type 2 diabetes?
Your GP will see you regularly to check your health. It’s important you’re able to manage your type 2 diabetes properly.
Every 3-6 months, your GP will check your medicine, weight, height, and blood pressure. You should tell your GP if you have noticed any new symptoms.
Every year, your GP will also check your heart health and may ask you to have some specific tests. Type 2 diabetes can cause problems for your heart, kidneys, eyes and feet. Your GP will check for any risks in these areas. If you are at risk, you may need to see a specialist.
What can I do for my type 2 diabetes?
Type 2 diabetes is not reversible but eating a healthy diet and losing weight can help normalise your blood sugar levels. Keep visiting your GP as often as you need. If you need to see a specialist, make sure you keep all your appointments. People with type 2 diabetes have a high risk of heart disease. Be sure to have your blood pressure checked regularly. Speak to your GP about booking in regular heart health checks.
Other steps to take:
- Take any medicine exactly as instructed and attend all checkups
- Book in with your GP to discuss your progress and track your blood sugar
- Consider speaking to a diabetes educator – see supports below
