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Why is diabetes such a big deal?

Medical Information  •  June 9, 2020

WHY IS DIABETES SUCH A BIG DEAL?

Type 2 Diabetes, earlier known as non-insulin dependent diabetes, has been on the rise for years. Patients often ask me, “why is having a little high blood sugar such a problem? I feel totally fine!”. Type 2 Diabetes happens when the body does not make enough insulin, or the cells of the body become resistant to insulin. When this happens, the cells do not get the glucose they need to function. Type 2 Diabetes most often causes no symptoms, but over time will damage the eyes, nerves, kidneys and blood vessels potentially causing blindness, heart disease, stroke, kidney failure and loss of sensation and circulation to the feet. Blood sugar (glucose) levels need to be taken very seriously. How do you know if you have diabetes if there are usually no symptoms? Diabetes is easily detected in routine blood work. This is something very easily screened for by your primary care doctor or bariatric medical doctor. Some patient DO have symptoms of Diabetes: 1) Increased thirst and urination 2) Blurred vision 3) Tingling in the feet and lower legs 4) Yeast infections in women, penile irritation/infections in men If you have any of these symptoms, are overweight, and/or are over the age of 45, please be screened for diabetes. Diabetes is usually quite easy to treat with oral medications and some simple changes in diet. Many new medications for Type 2 Diabetes have come out over the past few years that have minimal side effects AND can lead to weight loss and improved long-term health. If you already have Diabetes, talk to your doctor about the best medication for you and make sure that you keep up with your blood work. Just being on a medication for Diabetes doesn’t mean that the Diabetes is well controlled. Be proactive with your health.