Type II Diabetes

Type II Diabetes is a chronic disease characterized by the body's inability to properly use insulin. Insulin is a hormone that helps glucose, or sugar, get from the blood into cells, where it is used for energy. In Type II Diabetes, the body becomes resistant to insulin, and glucose builds up in the blood. This excess glucose can damage the body's organs and tissues.

Causes of Type II Diabetes

The exact cause of Type II Diabetes is not known, but a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors is thought to contribute to the disease. Risk factors for Type II Diabetes include:

• Obesity
• Physical inactivity
• Family history of diabetes
• Age (over 45)
• Race or ethnicity (African Americans, Hispanic Americans, American Indians, and Asian Americans are at increased risk)
• Certain medical conditions, such as pregnancy, polycystic ovary syndrome, and Cushing's syndrome

Symptoms of Type II Diabetes

Many people with Type II Diabetes do not have any symptoms in the early stages of the disease. As the disease progresses, symptoms may include:

• Increased thirst
• Frequent urination
• Increased hunger
• Weight loss
• Fatigue
• Blurred vision
• Slow-healing sores
• Frequent infections

Treatment for Type II Diabetes

There is no cure for Type II Diabetes, but the disease can be managed through a combination of lifestyle changes, medication, and regular monitoring of blood sugar levels. Lifestyle changes that can help manage Type II Diabetes include:

• Losing weight
• Getting regular exercise
• Eating a healthy diet
• Taking medication as prescribed
• Monitoring blood sugar levels regularly

Complications of Type II Diabetes

If Type II Diabetes is not managed properly, it can lead to a number of serious complications, including:

• Heart disease
• Stroke
• Kidney disease
• Eye damage
• Nerve damage
• Foot ulcers
• Amputation

Prevention of Type II Diabetes

There is no surefire way to prevent Type II Diabetes, but there are a number of things you can do to reduce your risk of developing the disease, including:

• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Getting regular exercise
• Eating a healthy diet
• Avoiding tobacco smoke
• Getting enough sleep
• Managing stress

Why Learn about Type II Diabetes?

There are many reasons why you might want to learn about Type II Diabetes. If you have been diagnosed with Type II Diabetes, it is important to learn how to manage the disease to prevent serious complications. If you have a family history of diabetes, learning about the disease can help you reduce your risk of developing it yourself. Even if you have no personal connection to diabetes, understanding the disease can help you make healthier choices for yourself and your family.

Careers in Type II Diabetes

There are a number of careers available for people who want to work in the field of Type II Diabetes. These careers include:

• Doctor
• Nurse
• Dietitian
• Exercise physiologist
• Diabetes educator
• Pharmacist
• Social worker
• Researcher

Online Courses on Type II Diabetes

There are a number of online courses available that can help you learn about Type II Diabetes. These courses can provide you with the information you need to understand the disease, manage your symptoms, and reduce your risk of complications. Some of the courses available include:

• Identifying Patient Populations
• Lifestyle Medicine Treatments of Chronic Disease – Part 1

Taking an online course on Type II Diabetes can be a helpful way to learn more about the disease and improve your health.