Type 2 diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is a common condition that causes the level of sugar (glucose) in your blood to become too high. It happens when a hormone called insulin does not work properly or there is not enough of it [1].

Symptoms can include feeling very thirsty, needing to pass urine more often (especially at night), feeling very tired, losing weight without trying, blurred vision, cuts and wounds healing slowly, and itching or repeated episodes of thrush [1]. Some people have no obvious symptoms, so it is sometimes found during a routine check [1].

The risk of type 2 diabetes is higher with older age, a family history of diabetes, carrying excess weight and being less physically active, and in people from certain ethnic backgrounds; it is also linked with conditions such as high blood pressure [1].

Type 2 diabetes is diagnosed with a blood test that checks how high your blood glucose levels are [1].

Type 2 diabetes is usually managed with a combination of healthy eating, regular physical activity and, where needed, medicine, alongside regular monitoring and reviews with your care team [1]. A healthcare professional can help you plan changes that are right for you. Do not start or stop any prescribed medicine based on this page.

Over time, high blood sugar levels can damage parts of the body, so people with diabetes have regular checks — for example of the eyes and feet — to find and treat any problems early [1].

See a GP if you have symptoms of type 2 diabetes, or if you are worried about your risk [1].