Diabetes is a chronic disease that allows glucose (sugar) levels in your blood to rise higher than normal. This is also known as “hyperglycemia.” Constantly having high glucose levels can lead to increased risk of heart attack, stroke, blindness, kidney failure, and lower limb amputation. According to the World Health Organization, “the number of adults living with diabetes has almost quadrupled since 1980 to 422 million adults. In 2012 alone diabetes caused 1.5 million deaths.”
Type 2 diabetes occurs when your body does not use make and/or use insulin properly. Insulin is important to the body, because it helps the body process glucose. Without insulin, your body’s glucose levels rise to dangerous levels. Risk factors for development of type 2 diabetes include:
A history of high blood sugars, prediabetes, and/or gestational diabetes,
Overweight and obesity,
Physical inactivity,
Family history,
Race and ethnicity, and
Age
Some people with type 2 diabetes can control their blood sugars with healthy eating and increasing their activity level. However, your health care provider may need to prescribe medication to help meet your target glucose levels. Of note, type 2 diabetes can get worse over time. Some people who may not need medications at first need medication later on.
It is important to follow-up with your health care provider for management of diabetes. Once established, your health care provider will:
Review of your glucose readings (bring your glucometer or a written blood sugar record to your all of your appointments),
Check your blood “Hemoglobin A1C” test, which is a measure of your average glucose for the past 3 months,
Review and adjust your medications, if needed,
Check your feet for loss of sensation,
Check your urine for protein, which can be a sign of kidney damage from diabetes,
Schedule you for a yearly dilated eye exam,
Monitor your blood pressure,
Check your cholesterol, and
Make sure your vaccinations are up to date.
The main goals of diabetes treatment are to make sure you feel well in your day-to-day activities and to prevent or delay long-term complications. Taking your prescribed medications correctly, meal planning, and physical activity are the best ways to reach these goals. Most importantly, diabetes management is a team effort. Communication with your physician and your health care team is critical. Your care team can help you take control the disease and continue to enjoy life.
If you have diabetes or simply want to see a primary care provider at our new Hill Country location, call 210-450-6800.
