Type 2 diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is a condition in which blood glucose remains too high because the body does not respond normally to insulin or cannot make enough for its needs. Some people have no obvious symptoms. Diagnosis uses blood testing, and ongoing care considers heart, kidney, eye, nerve and foot health as well as glucose.

What symptoms should prompt a check?

Increased thirst, passing urine more often, fatigue, blurred vision or slow-healing wounds can be clues. They can also have other causes. A risk assessment may help decide who should be tested, but symptoms or a home device alone do not replace a clinical diagnosis.

Tell the doctor about family history, previous pregnancy-related diabetes, recent weight changes and recurrent infections. Bring any blood results or home readings with dates and context. Avoid drawing conclusions from one isolated number without knowing how and when it was measured.

For the Australian guidance behind this explanation, see Healthdirect Australia: Type 2 diabetes - symptoms, causes and treatment - Healthdirect Australia.

What does ongoing management involve?

A plan may include nutrition support, physical activity suited to your health, medical treatment and regular monitoring. Goals should be individual and practical. Eye, kidney and foot checks address complications that may not cause early symptoms.

Ask who is coordinating care, when reviews are due and what to do during illness. If treatment is prescribed, understand the instructions and when to seek advice about unwanted effects or low glucose. Do not change doses based on another person's plan. Telehealth can support review, but physical checks and pathology remain important.

When should I seek urgent help?

Vomiting, severe dehydration, confusion, unusual drowsiness or marked breathing changes needs urgent assessment. Call 000 for collapse or life-threatening symptoms. A new infected foot wound also deserves prompt review. Follow your personal sick-day plan if you have one, and seek advice when you are unsure rather than relying solely on a routine online booking.

Where to go next

Read online doctor consultations to understand the relevant service. A doctor decides whether a consultation, examination, referral or another pathway is appropriate for your situation.