Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What tests are used to diagnose type 2 diabetes?
There are several blood tests a doctor can use for diagnosis. The most common is the A1C test, which reflects your average blood sugar level over the past two to three months. A fasting plasma glucose (FPG) test measures your blood sugar after you’ve fasted overnight. An oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) checks your blood sugar levels before and two hours after you drink a special sweet drink. A random plasma glucose test can also be used if you have severe diabetes symptoms.
Can type 2 diabetes in older adults be reversed?
The term “reversed” can be misleading. Currently, there is no cure for type 2 diabetes. However, it is possible for some people, particularly those who are newly diagnosed and overweight, to achieve remission. This means their blood sugar levels return to a non-diabetic range without the need for medication. Remission is most often achieved through significant weight loss and intensive lifestyle changes. It’s important to know that remission is not a cure, and diabetes can return if lifestyle habits change.
What is the difference between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes?
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease where the body’s immune system attacks and destroys the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. It is usually diagnosed in children and young adults and requires insulin therapy for survival. Type 2 diabetes, which is far more common, is characterized by insulin resistance and/or insufficient insulin production and is strongly linked to genetics and lifestyle factors. It is typically diagnosed in adults.
How does diabetes affect other health conditions common in seniors?
Diabetes can complicate other conditions prevalent in older adults. For example, it significantly increases the risk of cardiovascular disease, including heart attacks and strokes. It can worsen high blood pressure and cholesterol. The nerve damage (neuropathy) and poor circulation it causes can increase the risk of falls, which is especially dangerous for someone with osteoporosis (a condition that causes bones to become weak and brittle). Diabetes can also affect kidney function and increase the risk of cognitive decline.
Why is foot care so important for seniors with diabetes?
High blood sugar can cause nerve damage, reducing sensation in the feet. This means an older adult might not feel a cut, blister, or sore. Poor circulation, also common in diabetes, slows down the healing process. A small, unnoticed injury can become a serious infection or ulcer that is difficult to treat and, in severe cases, could lead to amputation. Daily foot checks, proper footwear, and regular professional foot exams are absolutely essential.
