Diabetes is a chronic condition characterized by high levels of glucose (sugar) in the blood, either due to insufficient production of insulin (Type 1) or the body’s ineffective use of insulin (Type 2). This imbalance can lead to serious health complications affecting various organs and systems over time.
At Family Health Care & Wellness Center in Hammond, Louisiana, annual wellness visits and preventative services play a crucial role in managing diabetes effectively. These visits involve comprehensive evaluations of blood glucose levels, monitoring of blood pressure and cholesterol, and assessments of kidney function and nerve health.
What causes diabetes?
Diabetes is caused by a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors that affect insulin production and utilization in the body. The primary causes include:
- Genetic factors:
- Family history of this condition increases the risk of developing it.
- Autoimmune response:
- Type 1 results from the immune system attacking and destroying insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas.
- Insulin resistance:
- Type 2 occurs when cells become resistant to the action of insulin or when the pancreas fails to produce enough insulin to maintain normal blood glucose levels.
- Environmental factors:
- Obesity, particularly excess abdominal fat, increases the risk of insulin resistance and Type 2.
- Lifestyle factors:
- Sedentary lifestyle and lack of physical activity contribute to insulin resistance and obesity.
- Unhealthy diet high in processed foods, sugars, and saturated fats increases the risk of Type 2.
- Other factors:
- Gestational diabetes can occur during pregnancy due to hormonal changes and increased insulin resistance.
These factors interact in complex ways, leading to impaired insulin function and elevated blood glucose levels characteristic of diabetes.
What are the signs & symptoms of diabetes?
The signs and symptoms can vary depending on the type and stage of the condition. Common signs and symptoms include:
- General symptoms:
- Increased thirst (polydipsia)
- Frequent urination, especially at night (polyuria)
- Extreme hunger (polyphagia)
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fatigue:
- Feeling tired or weak, often due to cells not receiving enough glucose for energy
- Skin problems:
- Slow healing of wounds or cuts
- Frequent infections, such as gum infections or urinary tract infections
- Vision changes:
- Blurred vision
- Sudden changes in vision, such as difficulty seeing at night or seeing floaters
- Neuropathy (nerve damage):
- Tingling, pain, or numbness in the hands or feet
- Burning sensations
- Loss of sensation in extremities
- Other symptoms:
- Dry mouth
- Itchy skin
- Erectile dysfunction in men
These symptoms may develop gradually in Type 2 diabetes or appear suddenly in Type 1 diabetes. If you experience any of these signs, it is essential to seek medical evaluation for proper diagnosis and management of diabetes. Early detection and treatment can help prevent complications and improve overall health outcomes.
Schedule annual wellness visits in Hammond, LA
If you or your child is living with diabetes, scheduling an annual wellness visit at Family Health Care & Wellness Center in Hammond, Louisiana is crucial for maintaining optimal health and managing the condition effectively.
By proactively addressing diabetes through annual wellness visits, patients and their families can gain valuable insights and support to prevent complications and achieve better quality of life. To schedule an appointment, call 985-543-6800 or conveniently fill out the appointment request form on our website. Take charge of your diabetes care today with Family Health Care & Wellness Center.
