Type 2 Diabetes: Causes, Symptoms, and First Aid Awareness
Type 2 diabetes develops when the body cannot properly use insulin or when the pancreas does not produce enough of it. Insulin is a hormone that allows sugar (glucose) from the bloodstream to enter the body’s cells and be used for energy. When insulin does not work effectively, glucose builds up in the blood instead of being absorbed by the cells, causing elevated blood sugar levels.
Over time, high blood sugar can damage many parts of the body, including the nerves, eyes, kidneys, blood vessels, and heart, and significantly increases the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes in Canada and is closely linked to lifestyle factors. The condition often develops gradually and may go unnoticed in its early stages.
Possible Causes of Type 2 Diabetes
An individual may develop type 2 diabetes if:
- The body becomes resistant to insulin, making it difficult for cells to absorb glucose
- The pancreas is unable to produce enough insulin to meet the body’s needs
Risk factors include being overweight, physical inactivity, family history, poor diet, and increasing age. While genetics play a role, type 2 diabetes can often be prevented or delayed through healthy lifestyle choices such as maintaining a healthy weight, eating balanced meals, and exercising regularly.
Common Signs and Symptoms
Some people with type 2 diabetes may not experience noticeable symptoms at first. This is because blood sugar levels can rise slowly over time. When symptoms do occur, they may include:
- Increased thirst
- Frequent urination
- Increased hunger
- Blurred vision
- Fatigue
Elevated blood sugar levels may occur for many reasons, including illness, stress, lack of exercise, missed medications, or increased food intake.
Management and First Aid Awareness
The goal of managing type 2 diabetes is to keep blood sugar levels within a healthy target range and reduce the risk of complications.
Key management strategies include:
- Choosing healthy food options and spreading carbohydrate intake throughout the day
- Losing weight if overweight
- Engaging in regular physical activity
- Taking prescribed medications as directed
Additional important aspects of care include:
- Regular medical checkups
- Monitoring blood sugar levels
- Managing blood pressure and cholesterol
- Avoiding smoking to reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke
From a first aid perspective, it is important to recognize signs of high or low blood sugar and respond appropriately until medical care is available.
Important First Aid & Training Note
This information is provided for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Individuals with diabetes should follow the care plan provided by their healthcare provider. Always call 911 if a diabetic emergency is suspected or symptoms become severe.
Understanding how chronic medical conditions such as diabetes can affect the body—and how to respond to related emergencies—is an important part of first aid education. St. Mark James Training, Canada’s largest 100% Canadian-owned and operated First Aid and CPR training provider, offers courses across Canada that include recognizing and responding to diabetic emergencies.