The longer you have diabetes, the less sensitive you become to the signs and symptoms of complications. In fact, you may not even notice dangerously low or high blood sugar levels until the situation becomes life-threatening. For this reason, finding the right doctor to establish an effective treatment plan is imperative in maintaining control over your blood glucose levels and protecting your health and wellness. The compassionate and proactive team at First Keller Healthcare in Keller, Texas, provide expert treatment and management for diabetes and other chronic illnesses. Call today or book an appointment online to learn how they can help.

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What’s the difference between type 1 and type 2 diabetes?

In type 1 diabetes, the body doesn’t produce insulin at all. Without insulin, your body can’t metabolize sugars, which can lead to life-threatening complications.

With type 2 diabetes, you become insulin-resistant. That means your body produces insulin but can’t use it appropriately. As a result, over time, insulin production decreases.

What are the signs and symptoms of diabetes?

If you experience the following symptoms, it’s essential to seek evaluation from a qualified healthcare provider quickly:

  • Frequent urination
  • Excessive thirst
  • Excessive hunger
  • Blurry vision, changes in vision
  • Weight loss
  • Fatigue, exhaustion
  • Numbness and tingling or pain in the hands and feet

How many people are affected by diabetes?

Diabetes is prevalent. Over 30 million Americans have diabetes, and an additional 84 million Americans have prediabetes. Even more surprising is the fact that diabetes is the 7th leading cause of death in the US.

How is diabetes treated?

Treatment for diabetes depends on the type of diabetes you have. If you have type 1 diabetes, your doctor prescribes insulin to help you manage your blood sugar and advises you on necessary dietary changes.

If you have type 2 diabetes, treatment might include lifestyle changes alone or in combination with oral medications or insulin.

Regardless of type 1 or type 2, close monitoring and occasional adjustments to your medications are essential aspects of your treatment plan.

What kind of doctor treats diabetes?

Diabetes is a complex, chronic disease, generally treated by a robust healthcare team. While your primary care doctor can diagnose the disease then develop and oversee a long-term treatment plan, they will likely invite others into your care team with your permission.

These professionals have a more narrow focus; for example, an ophthalmologist may treat eye disease resulting from your diabetes. However, your primary care provider is concerned with both treatment and prevention of physical and emotional complications.