Type 2 Diabetes Specialists in Garia BT, Kolkata, West Bengal

What is Type 2 Diabetes?

Type 2 diabetes is a chronic metabolic condition characterised by the body's cells becoming resistant to insulin's effects, combined with the pancreas gradually losing its ability to produce enough insulin to overcome this resistance and maintain normal blood sugar levels. It is by far the most common form of diabetes and has reached epidemic proportions in India, driven by rising rates of obesity, sedentary lifestyles, and dietary changes, with Indians also having a genetic predisposition to developing the condition at a lower body weight than other populations. The condition typically develops gradually over years, often preceded by a period of prediabetes, and can remain undiagnosed for a long time since early symptoms may be mild or absent. Left poorly controlled, type 2 diabetes significantly increases the risk of serious long-term complications affecting the heart, kidneys, eyes, and nerves. While it cannot always be reversed, type 2 diabetes can be effectively managed and sometimes put into remission through sustained lifestyle changes, and medication when needed.

Causes of Type 2 Diabetes

Caused by a combination of insulin resistance, in which the body's cells respond poorly to insulin, and progressive decline in the pancreas's ability to produce sufficient insulin to compensate. Major risk factors include excess body weight particularly around the abdomen, physical inactivity, unhealthy diet high in refined carbohydrates, family history of diabetes, and increasing age. Indians and other South Asian populations have a genetic predisposition to insulin resistance that can lead to diabetes even at lower body weights than seen in other ethnic groups.

Symptoms of Type 2 Diabetes

Increased thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, blurred vision, slow-healing wounds or frequent infections, unexplained weight loss in some cases, tingling or numbness in the hands or feet, darkened skin patches particularly around the neck

Treatment & Types of Type 2 Diabetes in Garia BT, Kolkata, West Bengal

Treatment begins with lifestyle modification including weight loss, regular physical activity, and dietary changes emphasising whole grains, vegetables, and reduced refined carbohydrate and sugar intake. Oral medications such as metformin are typically used as first-line therapy, with additional oral agents or insulin injections added as needed to achieve target blood sugar control over time. Regular monitoring of blood sugar, along with periodic screening for complications affecting the eyes, kidneys, nerves, and heart, is essential for comprehensive long-term management.

Endocrinology & Diabetology Specialists in Garia BT, Kolkata, West Bengal (0)

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