About 38 million Americans have diabetes according to the CDC. That's 1 in every 10 people. Even more surprising is the fact that 1 in 5 people don't know they have it. Learning the warning signs and knowing when to see your primary care doctor or advanced practice provider* (APP) can help you detect and manage diabetes better and help you avoid serious health problems in the future.
What is diabetes?
Diabetes is a disease which is caused by the inability to control one’s blood sugar (glucose). Your body needs a hormone called insulin to help sugar get into your cells for energy. When your body doesn't make enough insulin or can't use it properly, sugar builds up in your blood. High blood sugar levels can hurt your heart, eyes, blood vessels, kidneys and nerves if left untreated.
Warning signs to watch for
Diabetes symptoms can start slowly, so they can be easy to miss. Here are the key signs that mean you should see your doctor or APP:
- Feeling very thirsty and urinating often: You might drink more water than usual and wake up 2-3 times each night to use the bathroom.
- Losing weight without trying: This happens more with Type 1 diabetes. Your body starts using muscle and fat for energy when it can't use sugar properly.
- Getting yeast infections often: High blood sugar helps yeast grow.
- Numbness or tingling in hands and feet: This might mean nerve damage, which is common with Type 2 diabetes.
Other warning signs can include:
- Feeling very tired
- Blurry vision
- Cuts or sores that heal slowly
Are you at risk?
Several factors increase your likelihood of developing diabetes. They can include:
- Being overweight, especially around your belly
- Family history of diabetes
- Getting older
- Not being active
- Taking certain medicines like steroids
It is important to speak with your doctor or APP if you have any of these risks. They will work with you to determine what steps you can take to reduce your risk, diagnose and treat you for diabetes (if you have it), and help decide how often you should be tested for diabetes. They will also be able to test to see if you currently have prediabetes, which means you are borderline to developing diabetes.
Treatment options
The good news is diabetes can be managed well with the right plan. Treatment depends on which type you have.
- Type 1 Diabetes: You will need insulin every day because your body can't make it. You can take insulin with shots, pens or pumps.
- Type 2 Diabetes: In this case, your body makes insulin but you cannot use it properly. Losing weight is often the first step, especially if you're overweight. Eating healthy foods and exercising regularly are usually the basis of your treatment plan. If diet and exercise aren’t enough, you might need medicine as part of your treatment.
Exercise plays a key part in managing diabetes, especially Type 2. The American Diabetes Association recommends at least 150 minutes of exercise each week. That is about 90 minutes of cardio (like walking) and 60 minutes of strength training. Research shows doing both types of exercise helps control blood sugar best.
When to talk to your doctor or APP
If you are experiencing any of the warning signs of diabetes or have known risk factors, don't wait. Call your doctor or APP right away. Finding diabetes early can help prevent or delay serious problems like heart disease, kidney disease and nerve damage.
If you have already been diagnosed with diabetes, regular check-ups become key. You should talk with your doctor or APP about how often you should see them going forward based on your needs and condition. On average, your healthcare visits should include:
- Every 3-6 months: A1C testing to monitor your average blood sugar over the past 2-3 months.
- Annually: Kidney function tests, comprehensive eye exams and peripheral neuropathy
- Ongoing: Blood pressure monitoring, cholesterol checks and dental care.
In addition, you should keep track of your blood glucose readings between visits and bring your meter and log to all your doctor or APP visits.
Diabetes doesn't have to limit your quality of life. With proper management, regular monitoring, and lifestyle adjustments, you can live a healthy, fulfilling life while keeping your condition in check.
*An advanced practice provider includes a nurse practitioner or physician assistant.