Diabetes is an epidemic in the United States in large part due to the poor traditional American diet. However, for those struggling with this condition, there is some good news. While this disease can present a severe health risk if left untreated, its symptoms are manageable and can even be reversible with the right medical care. At Montecito Concierge Medicine, we offer ongoing help and support to those struggling with chronic health conditions. We welcome you to get in touch and learn more about our fee for service and membership options.
What Is Diabetes?
Diabetes refers to a family of diseases in which your body has difficulty regulating its blood sugar, or glucose. You need glucose to power your cells so your muscles and tissues, not to mention your brain, will work possibly. An excess of blood sugar, however, can be extremely dangerous.
What Are the Types of Diabetes?
Diabetes is a multi-layered disease that can be broken down into several categories. This illness often begins as prediabetes, a condition where your blood glucose is high but not quite at severe levels. However, if you do not receive treatment, this condition will often progress into full blown Type 2 diabetes. There is also Type 1, which is a genetic disorder that usually appears in childhood. With Type 1, your immune system attacks the body’s own insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. Without insulin, sugar quickly builds up in the blood, which is why those with Type 1 diabetes must monitor their blood glucose carefully and take insulin when necessary. Gestational diabetes can occur in pregnant women due to hormones created by the placenta that increases your cells’ insulin resistance.
What Are the Symptoms?
Failure to manage Type 1 can lead to coma or even death. With Type 2 diabetes, symptoms may not become obvious until you are at great risk. Immediate symptoms can include blurry vision, tingling or numbness in the extremities and fatigue. Long term consequences of Type 2 can include cardiovascular disease, kidney damage, nerve damage, eye damage, hearing problems, and in some cases, even foot or leg amputation.
What Are the Risk Factors for Diabetes?
Risk factors for Type 1 include a family history of the disease, exposure to certain viral illnesses, especially at a young age, and the presence of diabetes autoantibodies. Risk factors for Type 2 include being overweight, not being active enough, age, family history and ethnicity (many people of color seem to be at greater risk).
How Do We Treat Diabetes?
If you have prediabetes or Type 2, the sooner you see us the better. At Montecito Concierge Medicine, we can immediately put you on a diet, exercise, and lifestyle program that is tailored to your needs and can help you manage your condition before it gets worse. We can also prescribe certain medications that will help manage your blood glucose and keep it closer to acceptable levels while we adjust your diet.
Why Diabetes Treatment at Montecito Concierge Medicine?
When you are a member of Montecito Concierge Medicine, we can check in with you regularly to make sure your symptoms don’t worsen. We take a personal interest in your case and can make whatever adjustments are necessary to reduce your cells’ insulin resistance and get you healthy again. We can start now with an easy and FREE 15 minute consultation with Dr. Alan J. Viglione. To get started, simply submit the form below or call us at (805) 892-6500.