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Diabetes Management Q & A
What is diabetes?
Diabetes is a condition that makes it impossible for you to regulate your blood sugar properly. Two main types of diabetes exist: Type 1 and Type 2. While Type 1 diabetes usually develops early in life, Type 2 usually appears in adulthood.
What causes diabetes?
In patients with Type 1 diabetes, the pancreas stops producing insulin, which is the chemical responsible for managing sugar levels in the blood. In patients with Type 2 diabetes, the pancreas continues to produce insulin, but the body becomes resistant to its effects. Both types of diabetes lead to high blood sugar levels and a variety of related complications.
How does Reyes and Reyes, MD, PA, manage diabetes?
Patients with diabetes need to manage their disease carefully. The doctors at Reyes and Reyes, MD, PA, offer the following diabetes management services:
- Medications - Some patients with diabetes may benefit from medications designed to lower blood sugar levels.
- Insulin - Patients with more severe cases of diabetes need insulin to keep blood sugar levels in the right range.
- Monitoring - The purpose of regular monitoring is to ensure that a patient’s diabetes is under control. Reyes and Reyes, MD, PA, administers the hemoglobin A1C test periodically to evaluate the success of diabetes treatment.
- Lifestyle counseling - Most patients with diabetes can improve their condition by making lifestyle changes. Dr. Reyes helps patients make healthy choices to keep blood sugar levels in check.
Why is diabetes management important?
If left untreated, diabetes can lead to serious complications, including:
- Eye damage
- Kidney damage
- Nerve damage
- Skin conditions
- Hearing impairment
- Stroke
Managing diabetes can reduce the risk of these complications and allow you to live a longer, fuller life.
What can I do to improve symptoms of diabetes?
In addition to taking all medications as directed and attending all recommended appointments with Dr. Reyes, you should check your blood sugar levels regularly at home. If your blood sugar levels aren’t in the correct range, report the problem to Dr. Reyes immediately. If you have diabetes, you should also eat a healthy, low-sugar diet, maintain a healthy weight, and exercise regularly.
