What is Diabetes? 

Diabetes occurs when you have high blood glucose. The three types of diabetes include Type 1, Type 2, and Prediabetes. Gestational diabetes can occur in pregnant women. When a patient has diabetes, they are unable to properly convert food into sugar for energy. The pancreas produces insulin, the hormone that allows sugar to enter the cells. Diabetic patients either don’t produce enough insulin, or they aren’t able to effectively use the insulin produced by the pancreas. When insulin can’t do its job, sugar builds up in the blood and can cause severe health complications. This is why it is important to recognize the symptoms and treat diabetes as soon as possible. 

Symptoms of Diabetes to Look Out For 

If you experience these symptoms, you should see your doctor about getting a diabetes diagnosis. 

• Vision changes 
• Increased thirst and urination
• Dry skin and slow-healing wounds
• Lethargy and fatigue
• Extreme hunger 
• Weight loss 
• Numbness or tingling in hands and feet

How is Diabetes Treated? 

Diabetes is treated with insulin therapy, medication, and glucose monitoring. Lifestyle factors like diet and exercise are also considered when treating a patient with diabetes. Your doctor may refer you to a nutritionist to help you develop a meal plan for managing diabetes. 

Steps for Managing Diabetes at Home 

There are steps you can take to manage your diabetes at home. We want to provide you with all the information and resources you need to live well while managing diabetes. There are changes you can implement in your lifestyle to get your diabetes under control and live healthily while managing this condition.

Your diet plays a critical role in diabetes management. Try to include fruits, vegetables, nuts, legumes, whole grains, fish, and healthy fats into your meals every day. Eating these healthy foods on a regular schedule will help keep your blood glucose at a desirable level and promote overall health. 

Exercise is also an important component of diabetes management. The CDC recommends that adults should get no less than 150 minutes of physical activity each week. Talk with your doctor to come up with an exercise regimen that is right for you. 

Book an Appointment at Atracare Today

We are the premier partner in health for members of the Lewes community. If you have diabetes, you can get the treatment and medical guidance you need to live a healthy, happy life. Book an appointment with Atracare today to get set up with one of our doctors. We use modern medicine and modern technology to diagnose and manage diabetes for our patients. You can book an appointment by calling, going online, or texting us. We offer self-pay pricing if you don’t have insurance or owe a deductible.