Type II diabetes, although it is a lifetime condition, can be managed successfully and the patient can improve his or her glycaemic control and overall health. Taking control of the disease allows one to take accountability for doing what should be done to manage the disease effectively. The doctor can make treatment recommendations but ultimately the success of managing type 2 diabetes heavily relies on the patient.

Management of type 2 diabetes

Proper medication, a healthy diet, stopping smoking, and regular exercise are all beneficial and should be considered as the basic overview of the management of type 2 diabetes. One may not have control over what kind of medication he or she has to take, but can make changes to aspects of individual lifestyle that will have a profoundly positive effect on their condition and make him or her healthier, more energetic and as a result, happier. Being aware of the potential risk factors is essentially important.

There are some factors that one cannot change; however, it is essential to be aware of what can be done to reduce risk of developing Type II diabetes, and how to improve the control of the condition if one is already diabetic. The various risk factors that one must manage consist of: obesity, high blood pressure, metabolic syndrome, poor diet, smoking, heart disease, and history of gestational diabetes during pregnancy.

Treatment for type 2 diabetes

Multiple interventions accompanied by medications are important in controlling the many risk factors linked to Type II diabetes. In terms of medication, patients in Australia are often prescribed to Metformin. Metformin is the most common drug for type 2 diabetes in Australia. The purpose of the drug is to help minimise hepatic glucose output as well as insulin resistance. In Australia, metformin is known to effectually minimize the risk of diabetes-oriented morbidity and mortality in overweight patients. Type II diabetic patients with hepatic or cardiac conditions are urged to use metformin with caution.

After using Metformin for a period of time as well as changing lifestyle habits, patients in Australia are often prescribed to use sulphonylureas, since they increase insulin secretion as well as Acarbose, a medication to help patient’s blood glucose which remains high after meals regardless of dietary modification. Acarbose medication is known to prevent the digestion of carbohydrate; therefore slowing down the rate of glucose delivery into the circulation system.

Insulin treatment may be needed to manage type 2 diabetes. Insulin may be essential initially in the disease at the beginning of the treatment plan. Treatment and management of type 2 diabetes requires consultation from a health professional and your doctor. The information provided here is simply a guideline and should you require treatment or management advice, please see assistance from your local health professional.

References:

1. How diabetes is treated: http://health.ninemsn.com.au/family/familyhealth/694404/how-diabetes-is-treated

2. Managing type 2 diabetes: http://www.diabetesaustralia.com.au/Living-with-Diabetes/Type-2-Diabetes/Managing-Type-2-Diabetes/

3. Medications for type 2 diabetes: http://www.diabetesvic.org.au/type-2-diabetes/medication-and-insulin/medications-for-type-2-diabetes

4. Managing type 2 diabetes: http://www.diabetesaustralia.com.au/Understanding-Diabetes/What-is-Diabetes/Type-2-Diabetes/#Managing%20Type%202%20Diabetes