What Is The Risk Of Developing Type-2 Diabetes If It Runs In The Family?

Diabetes is a condition that is complex and no one reason can be singled out as its causes. For this reason, a lot of people often worry when a parent or other family members develop type-2 diabetes and wonder if they were at risk. Moreover, the question arises whether this type of diabetes is hereditary or not. 

What Is The Risk Of Developing Type-2 Diabetes If It Runs In The Family?

It is always a good idea to get a checkup done to check blood sugar levels to find out whether one is at risk of developing this form of diabetes. Also, it must be noted that the signs and symptoms of diabetes are not straight forward. However, some people may be more at risk than others while lifestyle and environment play a big role in determining if one will develop type-2 diabetes.

What is Type-2 Diabetes?

The first question that is bound to cross one’s mind is what is meant by type 2 diabetes. For one, this is a condition that is very common these days and it is often referred to as a lifestyle disease. It is a chronic condition where the glucose or sugar level increases in the bloodstream. The insulin hormone helps convert glucose in the blood to create energy. 

A typical trait of this condition is that the cells in the body are unable to respond to the insulin well. After a certain point in time, insulin production may stop altogether. For this reason, uncontrolled type-2 diabetes leads to chronically high levels of blood glucose that presents several symptoms and may lead to complications. 

What are the Symptoms of Type 2 Diabetes?

The body is unable to produce and use insulin effectively which increases the blood sugar level. As a result, the body relies on alternate sources of energy derived from organs, tissues, and muscles. Some of the early symptoms of this condition that build up over time and are often dismissed include:

• Fatigue
• Dry mouth
• Constant hunger 
• Less energy 
• Frequent urination
• Blurry vision 
• Itchy skin

Early detection is always better because if these symptoms go untreated then the disease may become more severe and can become dangerous. For instance, an elevated blood glucose level over a while may lead to many symptoms that include, and are not limited to, the following:

• Wounds that take time to heal 
• Pain in the foot
• The feeling of numbness in extremities
• Yeast infections
• Dark patches on the skin

It is important to note that if one observes any of these symptoms it is good to consult a doctor. This is because type 2 diabetes is a condition that needs to be regulated with treatment or else uncontrolled sugar may lead to some other complications. 

Understanding How Type 2 Diabetes Works?

A hallmark of type 2 diabetes is that the insulin function does not act properly causing insulin resistance. The pancreas makes enough insulin but it is not enough to keep the blood glucose level stable. Obesity is linked to this form of diabetes and those with a BMI of more than 25 are at risk. 

It is important to note that this condition may set in at any age but it is most common among those above the age of 40. The signs and symptoms may take time to develop. Another major drawback of living with this condition is that it is associated with several comorbidities that include nerve damage, heart disease, kidney damage, and stroke among others. 

Since there is no cure for this condition there are only ways in which the condition can be managed using the combination of medication and lifestyle modification. Since this form of diabetes progresses it is important to manage it to prevent further complications. For this reason, early screening is always beneficial to keep blood sugar level in check. Blood sugar testing is a vital component of any successful diabetes management plan. Best blood glucose meter can help determine if you have your blood sugar under control, while also helping identify patterns that can lead to a spike or crash. The best blood sugar monitor is a successful key to diabetes management.

What Role Does Genetics Play in Type-2 Diabetes?

An important question that is often asked is the role that genetics play in developing type 2 diabetes. Yes, a genetic predisposition may put one at risk of developing this condition and environmental triggers can cause this as well. However, there is a strong link between this form of diabetes and genes particularly if obesity runs in the family.

Since families often share similar exercise and eating habits the genetic link is not always apparent and it is difficult to zero in on the actual cause. However, research studies suggest that weight loss and exercise can have a positive impact on the body and keep this condition at bay. For this reason, it is all the more important to make sure that children follow a food diet and exercise regularly to help prevent this condition. 

Research studies suggest that certain people belonging to certain geographic areas and ethnicities may be prone to develop this condition. For instance, Native Americans, African Americans, and those with Hispanic ancestry are at risk of developing this condition. However, lifestyle is a major contributing factor that determines whether one is likely to develop this condition or not. 

Living with Type 3 Diabetes 

For those who have a genetic predisposition to develop this condition can play an active role in keeping their blood glucose level in check. Self-care is very important to exercise, eat better, and keep track of your sugar levels. For this reason, it is a good idea to invest in a glucose meter that measures the sugar levels that gives one an idea about how one is doing. 

A yearly checkup and complete blood work is a must. However, specifically, get the blood sugar levels checked every 2 to 3 months to be on the safe side. If any stressors are affecting sugar levels it is important to identify and address them as early as possible before any further complications are developed. 

Type- 2 diabetes has a genetic link but it is important to keep a check on one’s diet and exercise that can help keep this condition in check. The combination of early prevention and disease management can prove to be an excellent way to take control of the situation.