Diabetes Management
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Lake Grove Family Medical Clinic
Family Medicine & Primary Care Physicians located in Lake Oswego, OR
Uncontrolled diabetes can become a debilitating and potentially life-threatening disease leading to loss of vision, heart disease, and infections. Early detection is critical in diabetes care. If you suspect you have diabetes, contact Lake Grove Family Medical Clinic in Lake Oswego, Oregon. Dr. Selby,and Christie Schoppe, P.A. can diagnosis, treat, and manage diabetes-related health issues. Call or schedule an appointment online today.
Diabetes Management Q & A
What is diabetes?
Diabetes is a general term for a number of diseases that stem from your body’s inability to properly process blood sugar or glucose. How well you process glucose is essential for your overall health.
Glucose is the basis for cells comprising your muscles and tissues, as well as your brain's primary source of energy. Excess sugar in your blood can lead to serious health problems that overtime impact the quality of your life.
What are the different types of diabetes?
Diabetes is primarily made up of two types — type 1 and type 2. Although pregnant women may develop gestational diabetes, and others may experience prediabetes when blood sugar levels are higher than usual.
Type 1 diabetes
Many men and women believe type 1 diabetes is a childhood disease, but in fact, more adults than children have this diagnosis. Type 1 occurs when the body stops producing insulin. Insulin transmits the energy from the glucose to vital organs throughout the body.
Type 2 diabetes
It’s considered the most common type of diabetes. Children may develop type 2 diabetes, but onset is more common for men and women in middle age or older. In Type 2 diabetes, your body doesn’t make insulin or use insulin well, resulting in insulin resistance.
What are the symptoms of diabetes?
Symptoms can vary depending on how elevated your blood sugar becomes. Common diabetic symptoms for both type 1 and type 2 include:
- Chronic fatigue
- Blurry vision
- Extreme thirst
- Sensitive moods
- Constant infections in gums or skin
- Slow-healing sores
- Sudden weight loss
- Constant urination
What causes diabetes?
Diabetes has become more common in the past decade. Although different factors play a role in diabetes, some of the causes of this disease can include:
- Insulin resistance
- Overweight and obesity
- Lack of physical exercise
- Inherited genes
- Poor diet
- Lifestyle choices, such as smoking
How is diabetes treated?
Managing diabetes is unique for each person. The process begins with a blood test to determine glucose levels. Once lab results confirm a diagnosis, a treatment plan will be initiated.
Medication, ongoing testing, and lifestyle changes usually encompass a customized treatment plan. Along with diabetes, they treat other endocrine system issues like thyroid issues and hormone replacement therapy.
If you suspect you have diabetes, call Lake Grove Family Medical Clinic or make an appointment online today.
