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Diabetes Specialist

Marlene Rocha Farooq, MD

Family Medicine and Aesthetic Physician located in Long Beach, CA

Type 2 diabetes can cause a wide range of symptoms: fatigue, weight loss, extreme thirst, and more. At Marlene Rocha Farooq, MD, in Long Beach, California, patients can take corrective steps to reverse the symptoms of type 2 diabetes and get back on a path to a healthier life. To book an appointment today, call or use the easy online scheduling system.

Diabetes Q&A

What causes type 2 diabetes?

There are two primary forms of diabetes: type 1 and type 2. For patients with type 1 diabetes, Dr. Farooq offers a referral to an endocrinologist.

Type 2 diabetes develops in adulthood, but it can sometimes show up earlier.

While there are many complex factors involved in the development of diabetes, consistently high blood sugar triggers it. That can be the result of poor diet, lack of exercise, or excess weight. Genetics and environment may also play a role.

With type 2 diabetes, your body no longer responds to the hormone insulin the way it should. Instead of filtering out glucose to be used as energy, your body ends up circulating the sugar in your bloodstream.

What are the symptoms of type 2 diabetes?

Type 2 diabetes may present different symptoms from one individual to the next. In some cases, you may not even know you have the condition at all until a medical test confirms it.

Common symptoms of type 2 diabetes include:

  • Rapid or unexplained weight loss
  • A frequent need to urinate
  • Excessive hunger or thirst
  • Slow-healing wounds or chronic infections
  • Ketones in your urine
  • Blurred vision
  • Fatigue
  • Dark skin patches
  • Foot pain or numbness


Even if you don’t have any symptoms of type 2 diabetes, it’s a good idea to have your blood sugar checked periodically to ensure you aren’t at risk of developing the condition.

How is type 2 diabetes treated?

Treatment for type 2 diabetes can include several different approaches that help support your metabolic health. The primary goal with diabetes is to maintain stable blood sugar levels, which can be accomplished by:

  • Taking certain medications (like metformin)
  • Maintaining a healthy weight
  • Getting enough exercise
  • Eating a diet rich in protein and healthy fats, while limiting carbohydrate consumption
  • Learning to monitor yourself for signs of high or low blood sugar


If you have 2 diabetes, you may also be at risk of developing other severe conditions, like high blood pressure. Dr. Farooq can evaluate your risk factors and suggest a comprehensive treatment protocol that will support your long-term health.

To book your appointment with Dr. Farooq today, use the easy online scheduler.