Type 2 Diabetes

داء السكري من النوع الثاني

A chronic condition in which the body doesn't use insulin properly, leading to elevated blood sugar levels over time. It's one of the most common chronic diseases in Jordan and the wider region, closely linked to obesity, physical inactivity, and family history. With lifestyle changes, monitoring, and medication as prescribed by a doctor, it can be effectively managed.

This information is for general awareness only and does not replace professional medical advice. Consult a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.

Quick answer

Type 2 diabetes is a long-term condition in which the body does not use insulin properly and, over time, may not make enough of it, so blood sugar (glucose) stays too high.

Symptoms often develop slowly and can include increased thirst, frequent urination, tiredness, blurred vision and slow-healing wounds — but many people have no symptoms at first and are found through blood tests.

It is diagnosed with blood tests such as fasting glucose or HbA1c. Management combines healthy eating, physical activity, weight management and, for many people, medicines chosen by the treating doctor. Regular check-ups help prevent complications affecting the eyes, kidneys, nerves and heart.

Symptoms

Increased thirst
Passing urine more often
Especially at night.
Tiredness
Blurred vision
Slow-healing cuts or sores
Frequent infections
Such as thrush or skin and urinary infections.
Unexplained weight loss
Tingling or numbness in hands or feet
Can be a sign of nerve damage from long-standing high sugar.
Often no symptoms at all
Type 2 diabetes can go unnoticed for years.

Symptom guides

Causes and risk factors

Causes

Insulin resistance — Muscle, fat and liver cells respond poorly to insulin, so glucose stays in the blood.
Reduced insulin production — Over time the pancreas may not keep up with the body's needs.
Genetic and lifestyle factors — Family history combined with excess body weight and low physical activity strongly influence risk.

Risk factors

Overweight or obesity — Especially fat carried around the waist.
Family history of type 2 diabetes
Physical inactivity
Age over 40, or younger with other risk factors
Prediabetes or a history of gestational diabetes
High blood pressure or abnormal blood fats
Polycystic ovary syndrome

How is it diagnosed?

Diabetes is diagnosed with blood tests that measure glucose levels. A test is usually repeated to confirm the result unless symptoms are clear.

Fasting blood glucose
Blood sugar measured after at least eight hours without food.
HbA1c
Reflects average blood sugar over roughly the past three months.
Oral glucose tolerance test
Used in some situations, such as pregnancy or unclear results.
Checking for complications
Regular kidney function and urine albumin tests, eye examination, foot checks, blood pressure and cholesterol.

Related tests

Treatment

The aim of treatment is to keep blood sugar in a safe range and lower the risk of complications. Treatment is individualised — your doctor considers your age, health, other conditions and personal goals.

Healthy eating
A balanced diet with attention to portions and to carbohydrate quality. A dietitian can help build a realistic plan.
Regular physical activity
Helps the body use insulin better and supports weight control.
Weight management
Even a modest weight loss can improve blood sugar in people who are overweight.
Medicines
Many people need tablets or injectable medicines, sometimes including insulin. Which one, and how much, is decided by the treating doctor.
Monitoring and check-ups
Regular HbA1c tests and screening for eye, kidney, nerve and heart complications.

Never change or stop diabetes medicines on your own. Doses and choices depend on the individual.

When should you see a doctor?

Arrange a medical assessment if

Increased thirst, frequent urination or unexplained weight loss
Blurred vision or sores that do not heal
Numbness, tingling or pain in the feet
Blood sugar readings that are repeatedly higher than your target
Any foot wound, blister or infection
Planning pregnancy while living with diabetes

Seek urgent care if

Vomiting, abdominal pain, fast breathing or a fruity breath smell
Severe drowsiness, confusion or fainting
Very low blood sugar with shakiness, sweating and confusion that does not improve after treating it
Chest pain, or signs of a stroke such as facial droop, arm weakness or slurred speech

Prevention

Maintain a healthy weight
Even a modest loss lowers risk in people with prediabetes or overweight.
Be physically active most days
Eat a balanced diet
More vegetables, whole grains and fibre; fewer sugary drinks and highly processed foods.
Don't smoke
Get screened if you are at risk
Early detection of prediabetes gives the best chance to prevent or delay diabetes.

Frequently asked questions

What is type 2 diabetes?

It is a condition where the body does not respond well to insulin and may not produce enough of it, so glucose builds up in the blood rather than being used for energy.

What are the symptoms of type 2 diabetes?

Common symptoms are thirst, frequent urination, tiredness and blurred vision, but many people have none at first.

How is type 2 diabetes diagnosed?

With blood tests — fasting glucose, HbA1c or a glucose tolerance test — usually confirmed by repeating the test.

Can type 2 diabetes be cured?

It is generally managed rather than cured. In some people, significant weight loss and lifestyle change can bring blood sugar into the non-diabetic range (remission), but ongoing monitoring is still needed.

What complications can diabetes cause?

Long-term high blood sugar can damage the eyes, kidneys, nerves, feet, heart and blood vessels. Good control and regular screening greatly reduce these risks.

What is the difference between type 1 and type 2 diabetes?

In type 1 the body makes little or no insulin because of an autoimmune process. In type 2 the body resists insulin and may gradually produce less of it.

When should I see a doctor?

If you have symptoms, risk factors, or a high blood sugar reading — and urgently if you have vomiting, abdominal pain, fast breathing or severe drowsiness.

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Medical sources

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