Diabetes Specialist

Why do I have diabetes?

Diabetes is an umbrella term used to describe disorders that disrupt the way your body uses glucose, or blood sugar. Every cell in your body relies on a steady supply of glucose for fuel and energy to function. Once glucose enters your bloodstream, your pancreas releases insulin to open cell walls and allow glucose to absorb. 

But if your body doesn’t produce insulin, as with Type 1 diabetes, glucose levels surge. Usually, Type 1 diabetes occurs during childhood — nicknamed “adolescent diabetes” — because of inherited traits, although you can also develop Type 1 diabetes later on in life, possibly due to viral infections. 

In recent years, the prevalence of Type 2 diabetes has been on the rise. With this form of diabetes, you may produce insulin in low levels, or your body becomes resistant to the insulin your pancreas releases. In most cases, Type 2 diabetes stems from being overweight, although your risk is also high if it runs in your family. 

What are the symptoms of diabetes?

When your blood sugar spikes because of diabetes, you can develop a host of complications and symptoms. Warning signs of diabetes or poorly managed blood sugar include:

• Blurred vision 
• Chronic fatigue
• Irritability and mood swings
• Frequent urination and increased thirst
• Extreme hunger, even if you recently ate
• Slow-healing wounds, especially on your feet

You may also find that you get sick easily or that you develop infections frequently, including gum or skin infections. If any of these symptoms are affecting you, the highly skilled medical team at Katy Internists can help you restore your health. 

Can I get treatment for diabetes?

Yes! Diabetes isn’t something you have to learn to manage on your own. At Katy Internists, you can expect comprehensive diabetes management care to stabilize your blood sugar, reduce your risk of diabetes-related complications, and improve your overall quality of life. Treating and managing diabetes can involve:

• Exercise planning
• Self blood sugar checks
• Weight loss management (if needed)
• Dietary and nutritional counseling, as well as meal planning
• Insulin injections or an insulin pump (required for Type 1 diabetes)
• Prescription medications to improve glucose absorption or insulin function 

While no cure exists for diabetes, combining these types of therapies can help you better manage your condition. If you have Type 2 diabetes, making healthful lifestyle changes with the help of Katy Internists can improve your blood sugar and insulin functions to a point where you no longer need medication over time. 

You can receive comprehensive diabetes management services at Katy Internists. Find out more by booking a diabetes evaluation online or over the phone today.