Type 2 Diabetes

The symptoms of type 2 diabetes can come on slowly, and it’s possible to have the condition for a long period of time before it’s diagnosed.

Symptoms may include:

• excessive thirst

• frequent urination

• unintentional weight loss

• fatigue

• recurring thrush (candida infection)

• blurred vision

• slow wound healing

• frequent infections

• numbness or tingling in the hands or feet

• areas of darkened skin in the armpits and neck

Type 2 diabetes is caused by a combination of genetic and lifestyle factors. 

The main risk factors that increase the chance of developing type 2 diabetes include:

• being overweight or obese 

• an inactive lifestyle

• a diet high in sugar and low in fibre 

• family history – having a close relative with type 2 diabetes, such as a parent, brother or sister

• ethnic heritage – being of South Asian, Chinese, African-Caribbean or black African origin

• gestational diabetes – in women, the risk of developing type 2 diabetes is higher if there’s a history of gestational diabetes during pregnancy

• certain medical conditions, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (POCS)

At your initial consultation, your endocrinologist will talk to you about your symptoms and medical history and will arrange blood tests. 

Type 2 diabetes is usually diagnosed through blood tests that measure blood sugar level as well as the marker of the average blood sugar over the preceding 3 months, called the HbA1c.

As the development of type 2 diabetes is influenced by certain lifestyle choices, there are many ways you can help reduce your risk of developing it, including:

• eating a healthy diet with low added sugars and refined carbohydrates, and high fibre

• exercising regularly

• maintaining a healthy weight 

• not smoking

Prolonged high blood sugar levels from unmanaged type 2 diabetes can lead to other health complications, such as: 

• heart disease and stroke

• nerve damage

• kidney problems

• eye problems

• foot problems such as ulcers and infections due to nerve damage and reduced blood supply to the feet 

• gum disease

At Welbeck, we take a holistic approach to type 2 diabetes management, tailoring a personalised approach that’s right for you with regular follow-ups and support. Our specialists will help you not only manage your glucose levels, but also your cardiovascular health and well-being. Often, this will begin with lifestyle changes such as dietary intervention and regular exercise. 

Other options include:

• medication such as metformin, to increase the body’s response to insulin 

• bariatric surgery to help control weight

• insulin injections 

The management of type 2 diabetes is rapidly evolving. Our team can advise you on new medications that not only lower blood glucose levels but also reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes. If you’re interested in using technology to manage your diabetes, we can recommend the best devices and apps to help.

At Welbeck, our endocrinologists are experts in their field and are dedicated to providing world-class care to every patient.

With access to colleagues across other specialties, our consultants are also able to refer within the Welbeck ecosystem if required to ensure you receive the treatment you need as quickly as possible, all under one roof.  

All appointments, testing, treatment, and follow-up appointments take place within our state-of-the-art facilities, enabling us to deliver accurate diagnostics and advanced treatments.

Your health is important to us, so we strive to offer same-day appointments whenever possible.

Our consultants are recognised by the major health insurance companies. If you have private health insurance, your treatment at Welbeck can begin once you have obtained authorisation. We also provide care to self-paying patients. Learn more about the different payment options at Welbeck.

Get in touch today to book an appointment.