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Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Insulin Resistance and Beta-Cell Dysfunction — Modern Multifactorial Management

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Published:

This content is for general information; please consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Endokrinoloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus?

Type 2 diabetes is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by insulin resistance and relative insulin deficiency leading to hyperglycemia.

Obesity, sedentary lifestyle, genetic predisposition, and aging contribute to progressive beta-cell dysfunction.

Diagnosis is based on fasting glucose ≥126 mg/dL, HbA1c ≥6.5%, 2-hour OGTT ≥200 mg/dL, or random glucose ≥200 mg/dL with symptoms.

Comprehensive management targets glycemia, blood pressure, lipids, weight, and cardiovascular-renal protection.

Symptoms

Polyuria, polydipsia, and fatigue (often mild or absent early)
Blurred vision and slow wound healing
Recurrent skin, urinary, or vaginal infections
Acanthosis nigricans, especially in neck and axillae
Peripheral numbness or tingling suggesting neuropathy
Incidental detection on routine screening laboratory tests

Risk Factors

Overweight or obesity, especially central adiposity
Family history of type 2 diabetes
Physical inactivity and unhealthy diet
Age ≥35 years, certain ethnic backgrounds (South Asian, Hispanic, African, Middle Eastern)
History of gestational diabetes, prediabetes, or polycystic ovary syndrome
Metabolic syndrome components: hypertension, dyslipidemia, NAFLD

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • New symptoms of hyperglycemia or screening-detected HbA1c ≥6.5%
  • Persistent hyperglycemia despite initial therapy, or HbA1c above individualized target
  • Features of diabetic complications or cardiovascular disease

Treatment Methods

01
Lifestyle modification: medical nutrition therapy, 150+ minutes/week aerobic activity, weight loss 5–10%
02
Metformin as first-line unless contraindicated
03
GLP-1 receptor agonists (semaglutide, liraglutide, tirzepatide) for obesity, ASCVD, or suboptimal glycemia
04
SGLT2 inhibitors (empagliflozin, dapagliflozin) for heart failure, CKD, or ASCVD
05
Individualized HbA1c target (typically <7%) with basal-bolus insulin if needed
06
Comprehensive risk reduction: BP <130/80, statin therapy, aspirin if indicated, annual complication screening

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Endokrinoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.