Diabetes Specialist

What is diabetes?

Diabetes is a health problem that causes higher-than-normal blood glucose levels. The glucose in your blood comes from the food you eat and serves as the main source of energy for all of the cells in your body.

Your body uses insulin, a hormone made in your pancreas, to get the glucose from your blood into the cells.

If you have diabetes, you have a problem that affects your insulin. Either your pancreas can't make insulin, or the insulin isn't working as it should.

Too much glucose in your blood damages the blood vessels and organs and increases your risk of developing other health problems, such as diabetic neuropathy (nerve damage), heart disease, or diabetic retinopathy (complications that affect the eyes and vision). 

What are the types of diabetes?

There are many types of diabetes. Some of the common types include:

Type 1 diabetes

People with Type 1 diabetes no longer produce insulin because their immune system attacked and destroyed the insulin-producing cells in their pancreas. This type of diabetes most often develops during childhood or adolescence. 

People with Type 1 diabetes must give themselves insulin shots daily to keep blood glucose levels in control.

Type 2 diabetes

People with Type 2 diabetes make insulin, but the insulin is unable to get the glucose into the cells. This causes blood glucose levels to rise, triggering your pancreas to produce and release more insulin, increasing blood insulin levels.

Type 2 diabetes is more common than Type 1 diabetes. You can develop Type 2 diabetes at any age, but it most often develops in adults during middle age.

Monogenic diabetes

Monogenic diabetes is a rare genetic condition that causes a decrease in insulin production. 

When do I need endocrinology for diabetes?

The endocrinologists at Fort Wayne Endocrinology are experts in hormonal disorders like diabetes. Though primary care providers manage most people with diabetes, you may benefit from a consultation with the team at Fort Wayne Endocrinology if you're having a hard time managing your blood glucose levels.

You may also benefit from a consultation with the endocrinologists at Fort Wayne Endocrinology if you're newly diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes and just learning how to use insulin to control your blood glucose levels.

How is diabetes treated?

Treatment for your diabetes depends on your diabetes type, blood glucose levels, and whether you have diabetes-related health complications. 

 Your treatment plan may include:

• Insulin injections for Type 1 diabetes (sometimes for Type 2 diabetes)
• Oral hypoglycemic medication for Type 2 diabetes
• Weight loss
• Nutrition education
• Exercise plan
• Blood glucose monitoring

Diabetes is an endocrine problem that can benefit from expert care with the team at Fort Wayne Endocrinology. Call the office or schedule an appointment online today.