Diabetes Specialist
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Westmed Family Healthcare
Family Physicians located in Westminster, CO
An estimated 1.5 million people in the United States are diagnosed with diabetes every year. Diabetes can have a big impact on everyday life, and in Westminster, Colorado, the Westmed Family Healthcare physicians offer individualized treatment plans for men, women, and children dealing with this disease. Westmed Family Healthcare has an on-site lab and is certified by the National Committee for Quality Assurance as part of the Diabetes Recognition Program, an elite group recognized for providing the highest level of diabetes care. To learn more, call or click to book an appointment today.
Diabetes Q & A
What is diabetes?
Blood sugar, or glucose, is one of your body’s main sources of energy. Your pancreatic gland, which is located near your stomach, secretes a hormone called insulin that keeps your blood sugar levels in check. When you eat sugar and foods that turn into sugar, insulin makes sure your blood sugar levels stay within a safe range by directing excess blood sugar out of your bloodstream and into your cells.
When your body’s ability to produce or respond to insulin is impaired, your blood sugar levels rise as a result. When they get too high, this can lead to diabetes.
The symptoms of diabetes include:
- Fatigue
- Irritability
- Frequent urination
- Vision complications
- Unexplained weight loss
- Excess thirst and hunger
- Regular infections, including vaginal, gum, or skin infections
What are the different types of diabetes?
There are different types of diabetes.
Type 1 Diabetes
Type 1 diabetes occurs when your immune system that typically fights off harmful viruses and bacteria starts attacking the cells of your pancreas that produce insulin.
Type 2 Diabetes
Type 2 diabetes, which is the most common form of diabetes, occurs when your body does not make enough insulin or responds to it incorrectly, which in turn leads to high levels of blood sugar.
Prediabetes
Prediabetes can lead to type 2 diabetes. When your blood sugar levels are higher than average, but not high enough to be in the diabetes zone, this is considered prediabetes — a warning zone.
Gestational Diabetes
Gestational diabetes happens during pregnancy and usually goes away after childbirth.
What causes diabetes?
The cause of diabetes isn’t definitive, but some factors are said to play a role, such as:
- Aging
- Obesity
- Inactivity
- Genetics
- Hormones
- Family history
- Certain medical conditions, including hypertension, high cholesterol, and autoimmune diseases
If it isn’t managed properly, diabetes can lead to serious complications, such as nerve damage, Alzheimer’s disease, cardiovascular disease, and damage to the skin, feet, eyes, hearing, and kidneys.
What are the treatments for diabetes?
The Westmed Family Healthcare providers offer a range of treatments to help you manage your diabetes, such as:
- Insulin and oral medications
- Lifestyle changes, including exercise, nutrition, smoking cessation, and stress management
- Blood sugar monitoring
Your physician will work with you to lower your risk of complications, control your blood pressure, lower stress hormones, regulate blood sugar, and effectively manage diabetes.
To get control of your diabetes, call or click to book an appointment with Westmed Family Healthcare today.
