Living with type 2 diabetes
Explained for you
Uses your language and style. The medical facts stay the same as NHS guidance.
NHS source (English)
Type 2 diabetes is a common condition that causes the level of sugar (glucose) in the blood to become too high. It happens when the body does not make enough insulin or the insulin it makes does not work properly. It is a lifelong condition, but many people manage it well. Keeping blood sugar in a healthy range lowers the risk of problems with the eyes, heart, kidneys, nerves and feet. Treatment usually starts with changes to food and physical activity, and many people also take medicine such as metformin. You should be offered an HbA1c blood test at least once a year, a free diabetic eye screening appointment, and a foot check. If you are overweight, losing some weight can make a big difference, and some people can put their diabetes into remission.
Key words to recognise
You may hear these English words at appointments.
- HbA1c
- A blood test showing your average blood sugar over the last 2–3 months.
- Metformin
- A common tablet for type 2 diabetes. Usually taken with food.
- Hypo (hypoglycaemia)
- When blood sugar goes too low. Can cause shaking, sweating or confusion.
- Annual review
- A yearly check including blood tests, feet, eyes and blood pressure.
- Diabetic eye screening
- A free eye photo test every 1–2 years for people with diabetes aged 12 and over.
Things you can do
- Know your latest HbA1c result, ask your practice for it
- Book or attend your diabetic eye screening
- Check your feet every day for cuts, blisters or colour changes
- Try smaller portions of rice, chapati or bread rather than cutting foods out completely
- Swap sugary drinks and sweet tea for water, or reduce sugar gradually
- Aim for 150 minutes of moving a week, brisk walking counts
- Ask about a free structured education course (e.g. DESMOND or X-PERT)
Questions to ask your GP
- What was my HbA1c and what should I aim for?
- Am I taking my medicines in the best way and at the right times?
- Can I be referred to a diabetes education course in my language?
- When are my next eye screening and foot check?
This service provides health information and navigation. It does not diagnose conditions or replace advice from a healthcare professional.