Diabetes

What is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a long-term (sometimes lifelong) metabolic disease where the pancreas does not produce sufficient insulin or when the body is unable to metabolize insulin correctly. Insulin helps the body to balance the amount of sugar, or glucose, in the blood. Maintaining this balance is critical for supporting organ function and overall health. There are two primary types of diabetes: type 1, an autoimmune disorder which usually occurs in childhood, and type 2, which usually occurs in adults who are obese or have other metabolic disorders. A less common third form of the disease is gestational diabetes, which occurs in some pregnant women. Signs and symptoms of diabetes can include:

• Blurred vision
• Severe fatigue
• Frequent urination
• Severe thirst
• Slow healing cuts and bruises
• Extreme hunger though eating regularly
• Tingling, pain, or numbness affecting the hands and feet (type 2)

What Risk Factors Are Associated With Diabetes?

People who have a family history of diabetes or are overweight or obese have a higher risk of developing the disease. Additionally, having a sedentary lifestyle or having high blood pressure or high cholesterol contribute to the development of diabetes.

How Is Diabetes Diagnosed?

Diabetes is usually diagnosed with blood tests and urine tests to look for elevated levels of glucose and other chemical and protein markers. Without proper and ongoing care, diabetes can cause kidney failure, nerve and circulatory problems, slow-to-heal sores that can lead to infection and amputation, vision loss, hearing loss and even an increased risk for Alzheimer's disease.

How Is Diabetes Treated?

Dr. Gruhlkey works with his diabetic patients to providing ongoing treatment and management of the disease. Patients will need to monitor blood glucose levels using finger stick tests and to help keep glucose under control with medication and lifestyle changes. Managing diabetes is important for maintaining overall health as studies have shown people with diabetes are at a greater risk for developing other serious medical conditions.