Again the cause of the disease is unknown, but is probably inherited. As with type 1 diabetes, other factors appear to trigger the disease such as obesity. Type 2 diabetes often develops slowly. Most people who get it have increased thirst and an increased need to urinate. Many also feel tired, irritable and nauseous.
Some people have an increased appetite, but they lose weight.
The symptoms can be so mild that they go unnoticed. They may also be confused with signs of ageing. It is thought that millions of people worldwide suffer from type 2 diabetes without realising it. Type 2 diabetes can be controlled by keeping blood sugar levels as close as possible to normal. This can be done by regular exercise and diet control alone.