Diabetes

According to the American Diabetes Association® (ADA), as many as 34 million Americans are living with diabetes, many of whom are unaware they have the condition. At Summit Health Family and Urgent Care, Louis Graham, FNP, ENP, and the team, are passionate about the importance of screening for and managing diabetes. That process begins by booking a visit online or by phone, so don’t delay. Telehealth appointments are also available.

What is diabetes?

Diabetes is a chronic disease characterized by high blood sugar. To understand the condition, it helps to consider how the body converts food into energy. 

 When you consume food, a portion of that food is converted into glucose — a sugar that travels through your blood to fuel cellular functions throughout your body. For glucose to enter each cell, a hormone called insulin must be present. 

People with diabetes either do not manufacture insulin due to an autoimmune condition affecting their pancreas (Type 1 diabetes) or cannot make enough insulin or make proper use of the insulin that is produced (Type 2 diabetes).

Type 1 diabetes is rare, and the vast majority of people with diabetes have Type 2, which is linked to weight gain and lifestyle choices. Some women develop gestational diabetes during pregnancy, which usually resolves after childbirth. However, women who experience gestational diabetes will carry a higher risk of Type 2 diabetes for the rest of their lives. 

What are the health risks of being diabetic?

Being diabetic is linked to a wide range of health problems. In fact, virtually every organ and system in your body is affected by the disease. Some of the health risks linked to being diabetic include:

• Heart attack
• Coronary artery disease
• Stroke
• Nerve damage
• Eye damage
• Kidney disease
• Alzheimer’s disease
• Depression
• Foot problems
• Skin conditions
• Cognitive issues
  

These are just some of the health risks that are definitively linked to diabetes. Fortunately, a simple blood test can determine your blood glucose levels and offer insight into your risk for developing this serious chronic health condition.

Are there treatments that can help manage diabetes?

There are many treatments that can help manage diabetes. If your blood sugar levels show you are prediabetic, taking steps to improve your health can prevent the disease from developing. 

Medications can go a long way toward controlling your blood sugar and managing diabetes. It often takes a combination of drugs to achieve the best results and a period of trial and error to find the right balance for your needs.

Supplemental insulin can ensure your body is able to effectively convert food into energy. Insulin is usually delivered through self-administered injections, and learning how to monitor your blood sugar levels at home is an essential part of this type of therapy. 

Making meaningful lifestyle modifications can also help improve your diabetes. Losing excess weight, increasing your physical activity, and managing stress can all help your body thrive, even with diabetes.

When you’re ready to learn more, schedule a visit at Summit Health Family and Urgent Care online or over the phone. Telehealth appointments are also available.