What is type 2 diabetes?
In type 2 diabetes, the body doesn't use insulin as well as it should, so glucose (sugar) builds up in the blood. It develops gradually and is very common. The aim of treatment goes beyond lowering a number: it's to keep you feeling well and to protect your eyes, nerves, kidneys, heart and feet over the long term.
Understanding your numbers
The main test for monitoring diabetes is HbA1c, which reflects your average blood glucose over roughly the past three months. Your GP will agree a personal target with you. The right goal depends on your age, health and circumstances, so there's no single number that's right for everyone. Alongside HbA1c, your blood pressure and cholesterol matter just as much for protecting your heart.
Managing diabetes well is about the whole picture (glucose, blood pressure, cholesterol and lifestyle), not one number in isolation.
Small changes that make a big difference
- Eat in a way you can sustain. Plenty of vegetables, whole grains and legumes; smaller portions of refined carbs and sugary drinks. A dietitian can tailor this to the foods you love, including Cantonese and Chinese cooking.
- Move most days. Even a daily walk helps your body use glucose better.
- Aim for gradual weight loss if you're carrying extra weight. Even a modest amount improves your numbers.
- Look after sleep and stress, and if you smoke, getting support to quit is one of the best things you can do.
Staying well: the checks that matter
Regular reviews are the quiet hero of diabetes care. They catch small issues before they become big ones. Your GP will help you keep up with:
- HbA1c, blood pressure and cholesterol reviews;
- eye checks (for your retina);
- foot checks (to protect circulation and sensation); and
- kidney and heart health monitoring.
How a care plan helps
If you have type 2 diabetes, your GP can prepare a chronic disease management (care) plan, which gives you access to Medicare-subsidised visits with allied health such as a dietitian and podiatrist. Because our GPs, dietitians and podiatrist all work under one roof, your care is joined up and everyone's on the same page.
Managing diabetes, or worried about your risk?
Our team can help. Book a longer appointment to talk it through, seven days a week.
How Sirius Health can help
Our GPs provide ongoing diabetes care and care plans, working alongside our dietitians and podiatrist so your whole picture is looked after in one place.
Sources: healthdirect · Type 2 diabetes; Diabetes Australia; RACGP guidance on diabetes management in general practice.