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Diabetes

A Plus Medical Our Services Diabetes

A Plus Medical

Internal Medicine Physicians located in Takoma Park, MD

Diabetes and prediabetes are metabolic disorders that affect more than 100 million Americans, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Thankfully, it's a common condition that can be well-managed with proper care. If you live in Takoma Park, Maryland, consult with Eric Aigbedion, MD, Bunmi Adewunmi, CRNP, and the team at A Plus Medical for a full evaluation and treatment regimen. To request an appointment, call the office or request an appointment online.

Diabetes Q & A

What is diabetes?

Diabetes occurs when your body can no longer adjust to high blood sugar (glucose) levels. This happens when your body stops processing insulin or when your pancreas can't produce enough of it.

This is critical because glucose is fuel for your brain, as well as a major source of energy for your tissue and muscle cells. Your body simply cannot function without it.

What are the types of diabetes?

The type of diabetes is determined by the cause, but what they all have in common is that your body has a difficult time regulating your blood sugar. Consequently, serious health issues can develop as a result.

Type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes are chronic conditions that must be managed carefully. Prediabetes is when blood sugar levels are elevated, but not yet in the diabetic category. Finally, there's gestational diabetes, which occurs in some pregnant women. 

What are the causes of diabetes?

The cause of type 1 diabetes remains unknown, but it may be a result of a combination of environmental factors and genetic susceptibility.

Type 1 diabetes occurs when your immune system destroys insulin production within the pancreas. Little-to-no insulin is left, and as a result, sugar in the bloodstream rises to unhealthy levels.

Prediabetes may lead to type 2 diabetes, where cells become resistant to insulin action, and the pancreas can't make enough insulin to ward off the resistance. Again, too much sugar stockpiles in the bloodstream.

Environmental and genetic factors may play a role in type 2 diabetes. Being overweight can also be a strong factor, but it isn't always the case.

What are the symptoms of diabetes?

Diabetes symptoms may vary. Some with prediabetes or type 2 diabetes may not have any symptoms at first. In type 1 diabetes, the onset of symptoms is usually quick and pronounced.

Symptoms of type 1 and type 2 diabetes include:

  • Extreme hunger
  • Increased thirst
  • Fatigue
  • Frequent urination
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Ketones in urine
  • Blurred vision
  • Slow-healing sores
  • Irritability

Depending on which type of diabetes you have, your symptoms may also change over time.

How is diabetes treated?

Treatment of diabetes will depend on your symptoms and the type of diabetes affecting you. Your A Plus Medical physician performs blood sugar tests, or an oral glucose tolerance test, which involves fasting overnight. If they suspect type 1 diabetes, they may test your urine for ketones.

If you're diagnosed, your provider recommends changes to your diet and exercise habits and may prescribe insulin therapy, blood level monitoring, and oral medication. In some cases, they may also prescribe bariatric surgery.

If you're experiencing symptoms of diabetes, call A Plus Medical, or request an appointment online today. 

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