Cases of diabetes have been on the rise. That’s the warning from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates there are 422 million people worldwide who have diabetes and over 90% of them have type 2 diabetes.
These statistics highlight the need for greater awareness about diabetes and effective management strategies.
If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with diabetes, here’s what you need to know …
Understanding Diabetes
What is Diabetes?
Diabetes is a chronic health condition. It affects how your body converts food into energy. This happens when your body either doesn’t make enough insulin or can’t use it as well as it should. Insulin is a hormone. It enables glucose from food to get into your cells to be used for energy.
Causes of Diabetes
There are two main types of diabetes, each with different causes:
- Type 1 Diabetes strikes when your body’s immune system attacks, destroying insulin-producing cells in your pancreas. The exact cause is unknown but is thought to involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
- Type 2 Diabetes occurs when your body becomes resistant to insulin. It also develops when your pancreas can’t produce enough insulin. Factors like genetics, obesity, and a sedentary lifestyle contribute to its onset.
Symptoms of Diabetes
Common symptoms of diabetes include:
- Increased thirst and urination
- Extreme fatigue
- Blurred vision
- Slow-healing sores or frequent infections
- Unsolved weight loss
- Tingling or numbness in the hands or feet (for Type 2 Diabetes)
Managing Diabetes
Monitoring Blood Sugar Levels
Endocrinologists will tell you that regularly checking your blood sugar levels is crucial. That way you understand what affects your glucose levels. It also allows you to make informed decisions about your diet and activity.
Healthy Eating
A balanced diet is key to managing diabetes. Follow these tips from the experts:
- Choose complex carbohydrates. These include fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
- Limit sugary foods and drinks which can spike your blood sugar levels.
- Incorporate lean proteins such as fish, chicken, and plant-based options like beans and legumes.
- Watch your portion sizes. This can help you maintain a healthy weight.
Physical Activity
Regular physical activity lowers blood sugar levels and improves insulin sensitivity. You should aim for 30 minutes or more of moderate exercise most days of the week. Activities can include walking, swimming, and cycling.
Medication
Medication may be necessary, depending on the type of diabetes you have. Types of medication include:
- Insulin therapy for Type 1 Diabetes and sometimes for Type 2 Diabetes.
- Oral medications designed to help your body use insulin more effectively or stimulate the pancreas to produce more insulin.
- Non-insulin injectables that improve blood sugar control.
Regular Check-ups
Regular visits to your endocrinologist are essential. They can monitor your condition, adjust treatments as necessary, and screen for complications such as neuropathy or cardiovascular disease.
Treatment Options at Upstate Medical University
At Upstate Medical University, our board-certified endocrinologists offer comprehensive care for diabetes patients, including:
- Personalized diabetes management plans
- Advanced insulin pump therapy training
- Continuous glucose monitoring systems
- Nutritional counseling with registered dietitians
- Regular screenings for diabetes-related complications
Specific Benefits
Managing diabetes with the help of the Endocrinology Department at Upstate Medical University offers several benefits:
- Specialized Care: The specialists in Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism at Upstate provide care tailored specifically for patients with disorders of the major glands of the body, ensuring comprehensive and specialized treatment.
- Integrative Approach: Out integrative diabetes treatment approach at Upstate focuses on the whole person. It considers lifestyle factors along with insulin and blood sugar levels for optimal management of diabetes.
- Pioneering Clinical Trials: Upstate conducts ground-breaking clinical trials. These are aimed to improve the lives of people with diabetes, reduce the burden of care, and prevent diabetes-related complications. Patients may have access to innovative treatments and advancements through participation in these trials.
- Access to Latest Research: Through clinical research studies, individuals with diabetes can benefit from the latest investigational treatments and new advancements in diabetes management offered by University Endocrinologists at Upstate. This access to innovative research can improve patient outcomes.
Endocrine System Support in Syracuse, New York
By following these tips, you can take control of your diabetes and lead a healthier life.
However, managing diabetes requires a comprehensive approach and the support of experienced healthcare professionals. At Upstate Medical University in Syracuse, New York, our endocrinologists are here to help you every step of the way.
Our Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism offers patient care, teaching, and research in diabetes, thyroid, adrenal, pituitary, lipid, and calcium disorders, metabolic bones disease and transgender medicine.
In addition, our clinical practice, the Joslin Diabetes Center at Upstate is affiliated with the Joslin Diabetes Center in Boston. It provides comprehensive, state-of-the-art team care for adults and children with diabetes.
Our clinical research team also conducts numerous studies. These are related to the prevention and management of type 1 and type 2 diabetes and its complications.
To learn more about our patient care services, please visit our website at https://www.upstate.edu/endo/healthcare/joslin/
