Type 2 diabetes

Are people with diabetes mellitus (DM) at a higher risk for dental problems like gum disease?

There is no convincing data to suggest that all diabetics have poor dental health. But having said that, poorly controlled DM does make one prone to infections and poor health—including dental health. Letting your dentist know that you have DM would be prudent. Given this knowledge about your medical condition, your dentist will be able to choose the correct products for treatment.

Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 31 Jan 2020
Medical Author: Dr. med.

Articles for type 2 diabetes

Am I at high risk for a heart attack due to my type 2 diabetes?

Yes, diabetes is considered a risk factor for cardiac problems including a heart attack. Keeping your blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol well controlled will lower your risks quite a bit. Aiming for HbA1c (three-month blood sugar average) less than 7 would be ideal.

Are people with diabetes mellitus (DM) at a higher risk for dental problems like gum disease?

Is it true that type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) is sometimes resolved in people who have had gastric bypass surgery?

Yes, it is true, but not in everybody though. It depends on what degree of diabetes these patients had to start with prior to surgery.

What carbs are better for Type 2 diabetes?

Plant-based carbohydrates such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains and starchy vegetables including beans/lentils. Foods with higher fiber may take longer to digest and decrease the after-meal glucose spikes.

What doctor should I see for my Type 2 diabetes?

Diabetes is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, which includes coronary artery disease and peripheral artery disease. Fortunately, through management of blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar, your risk for heart-related events can substantially drop. Of these, blood pressure and cholesterol management appear to be more important than blood sugar control (with respect to cardiovascular disease). It is generally recommended that most patients with diabetes in your age group should be on statin-class drugs (types of cholesterol drugs) that are known to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Eye exams are recommended annually for most patients. Blood sugar control has the greatest impact in reducing the risk of diabetes-related eye disease. Most patients with diabetes Type 2 are followed by primary care physicians (such as internists and family physicians). Those with more complex issues may need to be referred to an endocrinologist.

Do you have education programs for those newly diagnosed with diabetes?

Cleveland Clinic has many locations that offer diabetes education classes, including a new, conveniently located, free standing Diabetes Center in the University Circle area. Topics covered includenutrition, education, meter and insulin injection instructions, basic education about the disease state, and insulin pumps. Group and individual sessions are available.

Introduction

Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body doesn't produce enough insulin to function properly, or the body's cells don't react to insulin. This means glucose stays in the blood and isn't used as fuel for energy.

Symptoms

Read about the symptom of diabetes, including feeling very thirsty, passing more urine than usual, and feeling tired all the time.

Causes

Read about the causes of type 2 diabetes, which occurs when the pancreas doesn't produce enough insulin to maintain a normal blood glucose level, or the body is unable to use the insulin that is produced.

Treatment

Read about treating type 2 diabetes. Find out how to keep your blood glucose levels as normal as possible by making lifestyle changes, such as eating more healthily and taking more exercise.

Complications

Read about complications of type 2 diabetes. Without treatment, it can lead to a number of other health problems. High glucose levels can damage blood vessels, nerves and organs.