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Diabetes Treatment

It is essential to speak to a medical professional if you suspect that you may have diabetes, as it is dangerous to leave it untreated. Untreated diabetes can lead to serious medical problems, such as heart disease, stroke, nerve damage, kidney disease, and vision problems. Blood sugar levels that are not well managed with diet, medications, or exercise can also lead to severe complications, such as coma or death.

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What Is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a chronic condition that requires continuous management to achieve successful outcomes, which is why it’s important to ensure that treatment is tailored to individual needs. Depending on which type of diabetes a person has, the treatment may involve regular physical activity, medications, and dietary management.

Type 1 diabetes usually develops before adulthood, and usually appears in childhood or adolescence. Type 2 diabetes typically develops later in life, often in those over the age of 40, but it is becoming increasingly common in younger people, particularly among adolescent and young adult populations. It is becoming more prevalent in children and adolescents as well, often due to factors such as a sedentary lifestyle, obesity, and unhealthy diets.

What Is Type 1 Diabetes?

Type 1 diabetes is considered an autoimmune disorder, meaning the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the beta cells in the pancreas that produce insulin. As a result, the person will produce little or no insulin, and therefore cannot properly regulate glucose levels.

Symptoms include:

  • Very high blood sugar levels
  • Increased thirst
  • Frequent urination
  • Excessive eating

What Is Type 2 Diabetes?

Type 2 diabetes is typically caused by insulin resistance, meaning the body’s cells do not respond properly to insulin. When the body is unable to properly absorb glucose, the blood sugar levels remain high. Over time, this can cause serious health problems, such as heart disease, stroke, and vision problems.

Symptoms include:

  • High blood sugar levels 
  • Increased hunger
  • Numbness in hands and feet
  • Fatigue

How Is Diabetes Treated?

Diabetes is usually diagnosed through a physical exam and blood tests. Treatment depends on the type of diabetes, but can include lifestyle changesand medications. Lifestyle changes are an important part of managing both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. These changes tend to include a balanced diet, regular physical activity, and reaching and maintaining a healthy weight.

For Type 1 diabetes, these medications can include insulin, while for Type 2 diabetes, medications may focus on decreasing the amount of glucose in the blood, as well as increasing insulin sensitivity.

With the right diet, exercise, and medication, diabetes can be managed and the progression of the disease can be slowed or even prevented.

It is important to monitor your glucose levels regularly and adjust your medication and/or other lifestyle changes as needed. It is very important to speak with Dr. McElya about what changes are suitable for you, as lifestyle changes will vary depending on the type of diabetes.

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