Diabetes affects more than 30.3 million Americans, and the number is growing every year. For diabetes prevention and management, you need the help of Irvine Family Care in Irvine, California. Janet Goodfellow, MD and Ronald Young, MD, have more than 50 years of combined medical experience, and they can help you manage or prevent diabetes with personalized and compassionate care. Book an appointment over the phone to learn more.
What causes diabetes?
Diabetes is a chronic health condition in which there is too much sugar in your blood. This happens when your body doesn’t produce enough insulin — which is responsible for helping your cells absorb sugar out of your blood — or your body doesn’t use insulin properly.
Signs of diabetes include:
Proper diabetes care can help you live a healthier and longer life with fewer complications.
What are the types of diabetes?
There are four types of diabetes, which are categorized based on their cause. They are:
Prediabetes
Prediabetes is a condition in which your blood sugar is elevated, though not enough to be diagnosed as Type 2 diabetes.
Type 1 diabetes
Type 1 diabetes, which is normally diagnosed in children, occurs when the pancreas doesn’t produce enough insulin. Without the insulin, excess blood sugar isn’t directed into the body’s cells but instead builds up in the blood.
Type 2 diabetes
Type 2 diabetes, which is normally diagnosed in adults, occurs when the body doesn’t produce enough insulin or doesn’t use insulin properly. Without the insulin, excess blood sugar isn’t directed into the body’s cells but instead builds up in the blood.
Gestational diabetes
Gestational diabetes occurs in pregnant women. The exact cause is unknown, though it is believed to be related to hormonal changes. Gestational diabetes can be dangerous to mothers and their babies and requires specific care.
How is diabetes diagnosed?
Diabetes is diagnosed based on different blood sugar tests. These include:
How is diabetes managed?
Diabetes management depends on your diabetes diagnosis. In many cases, lifestyle changes — such as losing weight, following a healthy diet, and getting regular exercise — can reduce your symptoms. Taking medications to manage your blood sugar levels are the next step.
Getting proper management and checking your blood sugar regularly can prevent complications, such as amputations, vision loss, and death.
If you need expert care from doctors you can trust, please call to book an appointment today with Irvine Family Care.
