Diabetes Specialist

What is diabetes? 

Diabetes is an extremely common disease that’s characterized by having unusually high blood glucose levels. Glucose in your blood comes from the food you consume. It’s a naturally occurring substance that turns the nutrients from the food you eat into energy that allows you to function in your daily life. 

However, your body also needs something called insulin to make this energy creation process work properly. Your pancreas makes the hormone insulin. If your body doesn’t create insulin or doesn’t use it properly, your blood glucose levels can get dangerously high. 

There are two main types of diabetes: Type 1 and Type 2. If you have Type 1 diabetes, it means your body isn’t able to produce insulin, since your immune system destroys the cells in your pancreas that are supposed to make insulin. This type of diabetes more common in children and young adults. If you have type 1 diabetes, you need to take insulin every day. 

If you have Type 2 diabetes, your body doesn’t make enough insulin or doesn’t use it properly. Type 2 diabetes can develop at any phase of life. Obesity, lack of physical activity, hypertension, and high blood pressure are the chief risk factors. 

What are the common signs and symptoms of diabetes? 

Here are some of the most common signs and symptoms of diabetes: 

• Blurred vision
• Fatigue
• Frequent urination
• Increased thirst and hunger
• Numbness in your hands and feet
• Sores that linger
• Sudden weight loss

The symptoms of Type 1 diabetes typically come on very quickly. Symptoms of type 2 diabetes, on the other hand, generally develop gradually – over several years, in some cases. They can even go unnoticed for a significant period of time. 

How is diabetes diagnosed? 

If you suspect you’re experiencing diabetes symptoms, Dr. Chang will meet with you to discuss the status of your health. She’ll perform a thorough evaluation to review your medical history, including a physical exam, and she'll discuss your symptoms with you. 

For an accurate diagnosis, she’ll order specific tests, such as a blood or urine test. Even if you don’t have diabetes, discovering that you have a  chronic condition such as hypertension or high blood pressure should put diabetes on your radar since they can increase your risk of developing the condition. 

How is diabetes managed and treated? 

When Dr. Chang approaches diabetes treatment, a critical part of most personalized care plans involves improving your overall health and wellness through alterations made to your diet and exercise habits. She’ll offer lifestyle modification recommendations and monitor your progress with routine check-ins. 

Your individualized treatment also depends on factors such as your age, medical history, and which type of diabetes you have. Treatment for Type 1 diabetes involves daily insulin injections that you need to learn to perform yourself, as well as regular blood glucose level checks. For Type 2 diabetes, treatment often includes blood sugar monitoring, prescribed diabetes medications, insulin, or both. 

To find out more about diabetes treatment plans available at Zhuping Chang, MD, call the office or schedule an appointment online today.