Transportation
Patient Registration
Call Us Today!
866-CWW-4-YOU
(866-299-4968)
Call Us Today!
866-CWW-4-YOU
(866-299-4968)
September 5th, 2025
Type 2 diabetes is one of the most common chronic health conditions in the United States, affecting millions of people every year. If you or a loved one has recently been diagnosed, you may have several questions about symptoms, treatment, and lifestyle changes.
Here are some of the top questions about type 2 diabetes:
In this article, we answer 20 of the most common questions about type 2 diabetes so you can better understand the condition and take control of your health.
Type 2 diabetes is a condition where your body does not use insulin properly, leading to high blood sugar levels over time.
It is usually caused by a mix of genetics, lifestyle factors, and obesity. Poor diet and lack of physical activity can increase risk.
Common early signs include frequent urination, increased thirst, unexplained weight loss, blurred vision, and fatigue.
Those over 45, people who are overweight, individuals with a family history of diabetes, and certain ethnic groups are at higher risk.
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the body does not produce insulin at all, while type 2 diabetes involves insulin resistance.
Read more: What You Should Know About Type 2 Diabetes
Doctors diagnose it through blood tests like fasting blood sugar, A1C, or oral glucose tolerance tests.
There is currently no cure, but it can be managed and sometimes even put into remission through healthy lifestyle changes.
Yes, in many cases. Healthy eating, regular exercise, and maintaining a healthy weight significantly reduce risk.
Yes, though it is more common in adults, childhood obesity has increased rates among children and teenagers.
Read more: 4 Signs Your Type 2 Diabetes Is Getting Worse
Uncontrolled diabetes can lead to heart disease, kidney damage, vision loss, and nerve problems.
Diet plays a central role. A balanced diet rich in whole grains, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats helps regulate blood sugar.
Yes, regular physical activity improves insulin sensitivity, lowers blood sugar, and supports weight management.
Poor sleep can affect blood sugar control and insulin sensitivity, making good sleep hygiene important.
Stress can raise blood sugar levels, so stress management is an important part of diabetes care.
In moderation, some people with type 2 diabetes can drink alcohol, but it should always be discussed with a healthcare provider.
Read more: A Guide To Manage Your Newly-Diagnosed Type 2 Diabetes
Not everyone with type 2 diabetes needs insulin. Many manage with lifestyle changes and oral medications, though insulin may be required later. Medication alternatives for insulin include metformin, rosiglitazone, exenatide and more.
Metformin is often the first-line medication. Others include sulfonylureas, SGLT2 inhibitors, and GLP-1 receptor agonists.
Your provider will recommend a schedule, but most people check daily or several times a week depending on their treatment plan.
Support groups, dietitians, diabetes educators, and health centers provide education and encouragement.
Community health centers offer screenings, education, counseling, and treatment options for those living with type 2 diabetes.
Understanding these common questions about type 2 diabetes is the first step toward taking control of your health. The good news is that with the right support, many people live long and healthy lives while managing diabetes.
At C.W. Williams Community Health Center, we provide comprehensive diabetes care including screenings, personalized treatment plans, nutrition counseling, and ongoing education. Whether you are newly diagnosed or looking for better ways to manage your condition, our team is here to support you every step of the way.
If you have concerns about your blood sugar or risk factors, schedule a visit with us today. Together, we can create a healthier future.
Tags: managing type 2 diabetes, questions about type 2 diabetes, type 2 diabetes treatment options
Improve the physical, spiritual and psychosocial status to the residents of Mecklenburg and surrounding counties by providing access to the highest quality comprehensive family health and ancillary services to all, regardless of their ability to pay.
