Diabetes Specialist

What is diabetes?

Diabetes is a disease involving your blood sugar, or blood glucose. Blood sugar comes from the food you eat and is your body’s primary source of energy.

Blood sugar is regulated by insulin, a hormone made by your pancreas. With diabetes, your body either has a problem using the insulin it produces, or it doesn’t produce enough -- in some cases any at all.

Diabetes can cause serious health problems if left untreated. There’s no cure for diabetes, but it can be managed.

Are there different types of diabetes?

There are different types of diabetes. The most common are Type 1, Type 2, and gestational diabetes.

Type 1 diabetes

Your body doesn’t make insulin, and daily injections are needed. While Type 1 diabetes is typically diagnosed at a young age, it can occur anytime.

Type 2 diabetes

People with Type 2 diabetes don’t make or use insulin effectively. This type of diabetes can develop at any age and is associated with obesity.

Gestational diabetes

Some women develop diabetes while pregnant, but it usually resolves with childbirth.

What are the symptoms of diabetes?

Diabetes can be present without symptoms, so it’s important to speak with Dr. Desai if you think you’re at risk.

Types 1 and 2 diabetes have similar symptoms when present. However, Type 1 symptoms typically begin suddenly and are more severe.

Symptoms of diabetes include:

• Increased hunger and thirst
• Increased urination
• Unexplained weight loss
• Dry mouth and itchy skin
• Vomiting and nausea
• Numbness or pain in your legs or feet

Developing yeast infections and having blurry vision can also be a common symptom of diabetes, as well as taking longer to heal from an injury.

How is diabetes diagnosed and treated?

Diabetes is diagnosed during a comprehensive physical examination. At your appointment, Dr. Desai discusses your symptoms and family history. She might also suggest blood glucose testing.

Dr. Desai is committed to helping you manage your diabetes as effectively as possible. Her treatment strategies are personalized to your individual needs and goals and include both traditional and natural treatment options.

Through traditional treatments, Dr. Desai offers strategies to monitor your glucose and manage your condition using medications if appropriate. She also provides dietary and exercise counseling to help you incorporate lifestyle management strategies into your diabetes care.

To learn more about managing your diabetes, call Integrated Family Medical Center or schedule an appointment online today.