What is type 2 diabetes?
In type 2 diabetes, the body does not use insulin well (insulin resistance) and over time the pancreas cannot keep up. Blood sugar rises. Common signs are thirst, frequent urination, tiredness and blurry vision, but many people have no symptoms at first.
How type 2 diabetes is treated today
Treatment is no longer only about blood sugar. Current guidelines focus on protecting the heart and kidneys and on weight. Your plan may include:
- Metformin, still a common first medicine for many people
- GLP-1 or dual GLP-1 and GIP medicines like Ozempic, Trulicity or Mounjaro
- SGLT2 inhibitors like Jardiance or Farxiga for heart and kidney protection
- Insulin when other medicines are not enough
- A CGM to see your sugar patterns
- Simple nutrition and activity steps you can keep
Can type 2 diabetes go into remission?
Yes, for some people. Losing a significant amount of weight, often 10 percent or more of body weight, can bring blood sugar back to the normal range without diabetes medicine. Remission is more likely when diabetes is caught early. Even without remission, weight loss makes diabetes easier to control.
Checking for complications
Good care includes yearly eye exams, kidney tests, foot checks, cholesterol and blood pressure control. Dr. Siddiqui keeps track of these so nothing is missed.