Experiences with
Type 2 diabetesSymptoms of type 2 diabetes include needing to pee a lot, feeling thirsty all the time and feeling very tired.
There are many types of medicine for type 2 diabetes. You'll usually be offered a medicine called metformin first.
Check if you have type 2 diabetes
Many people have type 2 diabetes without realising. This is because they may not always notice any symptoms.
Symptoms of type 2 diabetes can include:
- peeing more than usual
- feeling thirsty all the time
- feeling very tired
- losing weight without trying to
- itching around your penis or vagina, or repeatedly getting thrush
- cuts or wounds taking longer to heal
- blurred vision
Medicines for type 2 diabetes
There are many types of medicine for type 2 diabetes. It can take time to find a medicine and dose that's right for you.
You'll usually be offered a medicine called metformin first.
You may need to take extra medicines, or a different medicine such as insulin, if:
- metformin is not suitable for you
- treatment is not keeping your blood sugar levels below your target
- you have other health problems, such as heart problems or kidney problems
Your GP or diabetes nurse will recommend the medicines most suitable for you.
Your medicine might not make you feel any different, but this does not mean it's not working. It's important to keep taking it to help prevent future health problems.
Staying healthy if you have type 2 diabetes
A healthy diet and keeping active will help you manage your blood sugar level.
It'll also help you control your weight and generally feel better.
You can eat many types of foods
There's nothing you cannot eat if you have type 2 diabetes, but you'll have to limit certain foods.
You should:
- eat a wide range of foods – including fruit, vegetables and some starchy foods like pasta, potatoes and rice
- keep sugar, fat and salt to a minimum
- avoid missing meals if you take medicines that can cause hypos
If you need to change your diet, it might be easier to make small changes every week.
Related links
HealthUnlocked contains information from NHS Digital, licensed under the current version of the Open Government Licence
