Diabetes

What is diabetes?

Diabetes refers to several diseases that affect the body’s ability to regulate blood sugar (glucose). There are several types, including:

Type 1 diabetes

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease that causes the immune system to attack and destroy the insulin-producing cells in your pancreas. Without adequate insulin, sugar builds up in your blood, increasing the risk of heart disease and other health problems.

Type 2 diabetes

This is the most common type of diabetes. It causes insulin resistance, meaning your cells don’t use blood sugar for energy, causing it to build up in your bloodstream.

Gestational diabetes

This type causes your blood sugar to spike during pregnancy. It typically resolves after giving birth but can increase the risk of type 2 diabetes.

What are the symptoms of diabetes?

Diabetes symptoms include:

• Increased thirst
• Frequent urination
• Fatigue
• Unexplained weight loss
• Blurred vision
• Slow-healing sores or cuts
• Frequent skin infections

As diabetes worsens, you might experience tingling in the hands, fingers, feet, and toes.

How is diabetes diagnosed?

Kelli diagnoses diabetes during a home health care visit. Upon arrival, she reviews your medical records, asks about your symptoms, and completes a physical exam. Kelli also orders several tests, including:

Glycated hemoglobin (A1C) test

This test measures your average blood sugar level during the last few months. A result of 6.5% on two separate tests means you have diabetes. Kelli draws your blood during the initial visit and sends it to a lab for analysis.

Random blood sugar test

This test measures the amount of sugar in your blood. A reading of 200 milligrams per deciliter of blood indicates diabetes. 

Urinalysis

If Kelli thinks you might have type 1 diabetes, she collects a urine sample. Urinalysis analyzes your urine for ketones –– a byproduct produced by the body when muscle and fat are used for energy.

How is diabetes treated?

Kelli treats diabetes using an evidence-based, conservative approach. She may suggest:

• A balanced, nutritious diet
• Regular exercise
• Blood sugar monitoring daily
• Insulin (if you have type 1 diabetes)
• Medications to help your pancreas release more insulin
• Medications that increase insulin sensitivity

Kelli monitors your blood sugar at routine house calls and adjusts your care plan as needed. 

Call IMPACT Practitioner Services, LLC, today to schedule diabetes treatment or book your house call online.