Diabetes
The American Diabetes Association reports that doctors diagnose over 1.5 million new cases of diabetes every year in the United States. If you need help managing diabetes, have a family history of it, or are experiencing symptoms, book an evaluation at Innovative Care Medicine – Riverside in Riverside, California. You can schedule your diabetes examination by using the online booking system or by calling the office.
Diabetes Q & A
What causes diabetes?
Every single cell in your body relies on glucose, a simple sugar, for fuel. When you have diabetes, you run into a problem with insulin.
With Type 1 diabetes, your pancreas doesn’t produce insulin, resulting in dangerously high glucose levels that can damage vital organs. Usually, Type 1 diabetes occurs because of genetics or damage to your pancreas, possibly from a viral infection.
If you have Type 2 diabetes, your pancreas might produce some insulin, but your body becomes resistant to it. Typically, insulin resistance develops because of excess body weight.
How do I know if I have diabetes?
One of the best ways to determine if you have diabetes is to have a blood test called the A1C, or glycated hemoglobin test. This blood analysis indicates your average blood glucose (blood sugar) level for the previous 2-3 month period, by measuring the percentage of sugar attached to hemoglobin.
If you have a high level of glucose molecules attached to hemoglobin, your A1C is going to be higher. Dr. Ohri may diagnose you with prediabetes or diabetes if you have an A1C between 5.7-6.4%. Or if you have two separate A1C tests at 6.5% or higher, Dr. Ohri could confirm your diabetes diagnosis.
Dr. Ohri also spends time going over possible diabetes-related symptoms during your evaluation. People with diabetes often experience:
- Excessive thirst
- Frequent urination
- Extreme hunger
- Fatigue or irritability
In some cases, you could even have blurred vision or slow-healing sores.
Is there a cure for diabetes?
While no cure for diabetes exists, it’s certainly manageable. With Type 1 diabetes, you usually need to rely on insulin injections or an insulin pump.
Because Type 2 diabetes is often linked to your weight, Dr. Ohri can help you make lifestyle changes to shed pounds or decrease your body fat percentage. Some Type 2 diabetics need insulin injections, while others can manage it with medications.
Diabetes drugs often work by stimulating insulin production from your pancreas, blocking carbohydrate digestion, or by inhibiting glucose release from your liver. Dr. Ohri has specialized training in modern diabetes medications and care, so he can help you find the right drug for your needs.
Get the latest in diabetes management tips and medications by visiting Innovative Care Medicine – Riverside Book your evaluation either online or over the phone.