Home › Frequently asked questions
Frequently asked questions
Clear answers to common questions about type 2 diabetes and this website.
Home › Frequently asked questions
Frequently asked questions
Clear answers to common questions about type 2 diabetes and this website.
Home › Frequently asked questions
Frequently asked questions
Clear answers to common questions about type 2 diabetes and this website.
Home › Frequently asked questions
Frequently asked questions
Clear answers to common questions about type 2 diabetes and this website.
About type 2 diabetes
Several types of medicine can be used to manage type 2 diabetes. The most suitable option depends on factors such as your blood glucose levels, other health conditions and individual circumstances. Your healthcare team will discuss the available options with you.
Your healthcare team will consider your overall health, treatment goals, other medicines and the potential benefits and side effects of each option. Treatment should be reviewed regularly and may change over time.
Your treatment may be changed if it is not working well enough, is causing side effects or is no longer suitable for you. Do not stop or change a prescribed medicine without first speaking to your GP, diabetes team or pharmacist.
The correct advice depends on the particular medicine. Check the patient information leaflet supplied with it or ask your pharmacist or healthcare team. Do not take an extra dose unless a healthcare professional or the medicine’s instructions specifically tell you to.
Medicines and treatment
Treatment for type 2 diabetes can include medicines, changes to your diet and physical activity, and other approaches. The right treatment depends on your blood glucose levels, overall health and individual needs. Your healthcare team can help you understand your options.
Not everyone with type 2 diabetes needs medicine straight away. Some people can manage their blood glucose levels through changes to their diet, physical activity and other lifestyle factors. Your healthcare team will discuss whether medicines are right for you.
Your treatment may change as your type 2 diabetes develops or if your health or circumstances change. Your healthcare team may adjust your medicine, dosage or treatment plan to help manage your blood glucose levels. Regular reviews can help make sure your treatment remains suitable.
Some medicines for type 2 diabetes can cause side effects, although these vary from person to person. If you notice new or troublesome symptoms, speak to your healthcare team. They can explain what may be causing them and discuss whether your treatment needs to be changed.
Medical information notice: If you need urgent medical help, use the appropriate NHS urgent-care service for where you live. In an emergency, call 999.
Food and activity
There is no single diet that everyone with type 2 diabetes needs to follow. Eating a balanced diet with a variety of foods can help manage your blood glucose levels and support your overall health. Your healthcare team can help you find an approach that works for you.
Being physically active can help your body use insulin more effectively and improve your blood glucose levels. Regular activity can also support your heart health, weight and overall wellbeing. Choose activities you enjoy and build up gradually if you are not used to being active.
Regular physical activity can help with managing type 2 diabetes and supporting your overall health. Try to include movement throughout the day and activities that increase your heart rate, strengthen your muscles or improve flexibility. Your healthcare team can help you find activities that suit you.
Having type 2 diabetes does not mean you need to avoid all your favourite foods. Making small changes to portions, ingredients and how often you eat certain foods can help you enjoy a varied and balanced diet. A healthcare professional can provide advice based on your individual needs.
Monitoring and test results
Monitoring your blood glucose levels can help you understand how your type 2 diabetes is being managed. Your healthcare team may recommend checking your levels depending on your treatment and individual circumstances. Your results can help guide decisions about your care.
An HbA1c test measures your average blood glucose levels over the past two to three months. It is commonly used to monitor type 2 diabetes and understand how well your treatment is working. Your healthcare team can explain what your result means for you.
Regular diabetes checks help you and your healthcare team monitor your health and identify any changes early. The checks you need and how often you have them will depend on your individual circumstances. Your healthcare team will advise you about the tests you need.
Blood glucose results can vary depending on when and how you test, what you have eaten and your treatment. Your healthcare team can help you understand your results and what they mean for your type 2 diabetes. Avoid making changes to your treatment without discussing them first.
Using this website
You can use the main menu, search function and topic areas to find information about type 2 diabetes. Content is organised into sections to make it easier to find what you need. You can also explore related articles and resources for more information.
You can find information about medicines and treatment in the relevant topic area of the website. This includes information about different treatments, how they may be used and things to discuss with your healthcare team. Use the search function if you are looking for something specific.
This website provides evidence-based information and practical support to help you understand type 2 diabetes. It is not a replacement for personalised medical advice from your healthcare team. Speak to your GP, nurse or other healthcare professional about your individual circumstances.
The website provides evidence-based information about different aspects of type 2 diabetes, including food, activity, medicines and monitoring. Information is designed to help you make informed choices and feel more confident. Always speak to your healthcare team for advice specific to you.