The Call-On-Doc Guide to Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is a chronic metabolic condition that affects how the body uses insulin, the hormone responsible for moving glucose from the bloodstream into cells for energy. In type 2 diabetes, the body becomes insulin resistant, does not produce enough insulin, or both—leading to elevated blood sugar levels.

This differs from type 1 diabetes, an autoimmune condition in which the pancreas produces little or no insulin. Type 2 diabetes typically develops gradually and is strongly influenced by lifestyle, genetics, and metabolic health.

Type 2 diabetes develops due to a combination of genetic predisposition and environmental factors.

Common risk factors include:

• Family history of type 2 diabetes

• Overweight or obesity

• Diet high in processed foods and added sugars

• Physical inactivity

• Increasing age

• High blood pressure or abnormal cholesterol

• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

Insulin resistance often develops years before blood sugar levels meet diagnostic criteria.

Symptoms may develop slowly and can include:

• Increased thirst and frequent urination

• Unexplained weight loss

• Persistent fatigue

• Blurred vision

• Slow-healing wounds or frequent infections

• Darkened skin patches (acanthosis nigricans)

• Numbness, tingling, or pain in the hands or feet

Because symptoms may be subtle, many people are diagnosed through routine screening.

Diagnosis is based on blood glucose testing. Current clinical guidelines use:

• A1C test: ≥6.5% on two occasions

• Fasting plasma glucose: ≥126 mg/dL

• Oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT)

• Random blood glucose test with symptoms

Early diagnosis allows earlier intervention and better outcomes.

Modern diabetes care focuses on individualized, step-based treatment, as outlined by organizations such as the American Diabetes Association.

Lifestyle Modification

First-line treatment includes:

• Balanced nutrition emphasizing whole foods

• Regular physical activity

• Weight management

• Smoking cessation and alcohol moderation

Even modest weight loss can significantly improve insulin sensitivity.

Medications

Many patients require medication to maintain blood sugar control:

• Metformin – first-line therapy that improves insulin sensitivity and reduces liver glucose production

• GLP-1 receptor agonists (e.g., semaglutide, liraglutide) – lower blood sugar, promote weight loss, and reduce cardiovascular risk

• SGLT2 inhibitors – help the kidneys remove excess glucose and offer heart and kidney protection

• DPP-4 inhibitors – support insulin release and reduce glucose production

• Sulfonylureas or insulin – used in select cases

Medication choice depends on blood sugar levels, weight, kidney function, and cardiovascular risk.

Blood Sugar Monitoring

Patients may use:

• Finger-stick glucose testing

• Continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) for real-time insights

Monitoring helps guide treatment decisions and lifestyle adjustments.

Weight Management and Diabetes Control

Weight loss improves insulin sensitivity and can significantly lower blood sugar levels. In some individuals, sustained weight loss may lead to diabetes remission, though ongoing monitoring remains essential.

Prevention strategies include:

• Healthy diet

• Regular exercise

• Weight management

• Avoiding tobacco

• Routine health screenings

Individuals with prediabetes can significantly reduce their risk with early intervention.

Managing type 2 diabetes doesn’t have to be complicated. Call-On-Doc offers convenient online care, including:

• Provider evaluation

• Prescriptions and refills

• Lab coordination

• Ongoing chronic care support

With no appointments required and prescriptions ready quickly, Call-On-Doc makes diabetes care accessible and affordable.