Type 2 diabetes

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15/15 rule	Alpha-glucosidase inhibitors	Biguanides	Diabetes and exercise
Diabetic emergency supplies	Food and insulin release	Glucose in blood	Low blood sugar symptoms
Monitor blood glucose - series	Starchy foods	Sulfonylureas drug	Thiazolidinediones

Noninsulin-dependent diabetes; Diabetes - type 2; Adult-onset diabetes

The immediate goal of treatment is to lower high blood glucose levels. The long-term goals of treatment are to prevent diabetes-related complications.

The primary treatment for type 2 diabetes is exercise and diet.

LEARN THESE SKILLS

You should learn basic diabetes management skills. They will help prevent complications and the need for medical care. These skills include:

• How to test and record your blood glucose (See: Blood glucose monitoring)
• What to eat and when
• How to take medications, if needed
• How to recognize and treat low and high blood sugar
• How to handle sick days
• Where to buy diabetes supplies and how to store them

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It may take several months to learn the basic skills. Always continue to educate yourself about the disease and its complications. Learn how to control and live with diabetes. Over time, stay current on new research and treatment.

SELF-TESTING

Self testing refers to being able to check your blood sugar at home yourself. It is also called self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG). Regular self-testing of your blood sugar tells you and your health care provider how well your diet, exercise, and diabetes medications are working.

A device called a glucometer can provide an exact blood sugar reading. There are different types of devices. Usually, you prick your finger with a small needle called a lancet. This gives you a tiny drop of blood. You place the blood on a test strip and put the strip into the device. Results are available in 30 - 45 seconds.

A health care provider or diabetes educator will help set up an at-home testing schedule for you. Your doctor will help you set your blood sugar goals.

• Most people with type 2 diabetes only need to check their blood sugar once or twice a day.
• If your blood sugar levels are under control, you may only need to check them a few times a week.
• Tests may be done when you wake up, before meals, and at bedtime.
• More frequent testing may be needed when you are sick or under stress.