About Type 2 Diabetes – What is it and How is it Treated with Avandia
According to the American Diabetes Association, 23.6 million Americans suffer from type 2 diabetes (also referred to as type II diabetes). This serious medical condition affects how the body metabolizes sugar (glucose). Individuals who suffer from type 2 diabetes are resistant to insulin, which is a hormone produced by the pancreas to control and distribute sugar throughout the body. In some patients, the pancreas fails to produce enough insulin to maintain a normal glucose level. Type II diabetes is a devastating illness associated with a number of life-threatening complications.
Type 2 Diabetes Risk Factors and Complications
Although specific factors that lead to type 2 diabetes are not fully understood, research suggests that genetic predisposition and obesity are the most common characteristics found in patients suffering from the disease.
Type 2 diabetes, previously referred to as adult-onset diabetes, typically develops in individuals over the age of 40. Sadly, however, the illness is becoming more common among younger patients.
Type 2 diabetes risk factors include:
- Heredity
- Massive weight gain or obesity
- Impaired glucose tolerance
- Impaired glucose tolerance during pregnancy
The most common symptoms of type 2 diabetes are:
- Excessive thirst
- Excessive and abnormally frequent need to urinate
- Tiredness
- Weight loss
- Vision loss
Unfortunately, type II diabetes may lead to a number of complications, including:
- Atheroma (hardening of the arteries)
- Heart attack
- Stroke
- High blood pressure
- Poor circulation
- Kidney damage/failure
- Vision loss — diabetic retinopathy
- Nerve damage
- Infections
- Amputations of the limbs
- Impotence
The type and severity of life-threatening complications vary from case to case.
Type 2 Diabetes Diagnosis and Treatment
A blood test measuring glucose levels is necessary to successfully diagnose type 2 diabetes. A high glucose level in urine is another indicator of type 2 diabetes.
Although type 2 diabetes cannot be cured, there are several treatment options to prevent further complications. Most type 2 diabetes treatments focus on maintaining a near-normal level of glucose in the blood and/or assisting the body in absorbing naturally produced insulin. Diabetes treatment with Avandia has been one of the treatments most frequently utilized by physicians worldwide. In addition to Avandia treatment, most patients require a combination of different types of drugs in conjunction with a healthy diet, weight loss and physical activity. Insulin therapy may also be appropriate for patients who do not respond well to the above treatments. However, Avandia treatment for diabetes is not recommended in conjunction with insulin.
Although type 2 diabetes is a common disease, each individual patient requires unique care with the goal of:
- Keeping blood glucose levels as normal as possible
- Reducing the possibility of complications and life-threatening side effects
- Detecting and treating complications as soon as possible
Avandia Treatment
Avandia has been prescribed to millions of individuals worldwide who suffer from type 2 diabetes. However, several studies have indicated that this controversial drug may lead to an enhanced risk of Avandia side effects, including increasing the number of Avandia heart attack and stroke victims. To date there has not been official Avandia recall by the FDA, but if you are currently on Avandia and have reason to believe that you could be at risk, immediately consult with your healthcare provider.
Avandia Legal Consultation
If you or a loved one has suffered a heart attack, stroke or other type 2 diabetes complication while on Avandia, it is best to consult with a qualified attorney who can help you pursue your rights as a victim of a defective drug. Avandia lawyers can evaluate your case and inform you of your rights to compensation for your distress, medical bills and diminished quality of life.
Page Updated June 24, 2011
