Diabetes Specialist
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MS Family Medicine Health Care P.C.
Family Medicine & Family Practice located in Mineola, NY & Queens, Rosedale, NY
More than 34 million Americans have diabetes. Though common, without prompt intervention and treatment, diabetes can increase your risk of serious health problems, including a heart attack or permanent nerve damage. At MS Family Medicine Health Care PC, which has two convenient locations in Rosedale, Queens, and Garden City, Long Island, Michele Reed, DO, FAAFP, and the caring providers diagnose and treat diabetes both in person and via telemedicine. To schedule an appointment at the nearest New York City location, book a consultation online, or call the office to speak with a staff member today.
Diabetes Q&A
What is diabetes?
The term diabetes refers to several chronic illnesses that cause your blood sugar levels to spike. Everyone needs some blood sugar to survive. It powers your muscles and provides fuel for the cells in your brain. However, too much blood sugar increases your risk of potentially life-threatening complications.
Fortunately, with early diagnosis and regular check-ups, it’s possible to prevent diabetes from causing irreversible damage.
What are the different types of diabetes?
MS Family Medicine Healthcare PC treats all types of diabetes, including:
Prediabetes
Prediabetes is a precursor to Type 2 diabetes. It occurs when your blood sugar levels are regularly high but within a manageable range. When detected early on, it’s possible to reverse prediabetes through healthy lifestyle changes like diet and exercise.
Type 1 diabetes
Type 1 diabetes causes your immune system to attack the insulin-producing cells in your pancreas. Insulin is a critical hormone that assists your body in regulating blood glucose. Type 1 diabetes is hereditary and usually runs in families. It occurs in about 10% of diabetic patients and requires treatment with insulin therapy.
Type 2 diabetes
Type 2 diabetes causes insulin resistance. This means your pancreas still produces insulin, but not enough to keep your blood sugar at healthy levels. Over time, Type 2 diabetes causes glucose to build-up in your blood. Healthy lifestyle changes and prescription medications can help relieve symptoms.
Gestational diabetes
Gestational diabetes only affects pregnant women. When you conceive, your body releases additional hormones to help the growth of your baby. Experts aren’t entirely sure why, but these hormones can make your pancreas more resistant to insulin. After you give birth, gestational diabetes typically subsides on its own.
How is diabetes diagnosed?
MS Family Medicine Healthcare PC diagnoses diabetes by conducting a physical exam, asking about your lifestyle, and reviewing your medical history. The symptoms of Type 1 diabetes come on suddenly, so they ask how you’re feeling as well.
Your provider orders a glycated hemoglobin (A1C) test. An A1C test measures your average blood sugar levels over the last two or three months. Any reading of 6.5% or higher on two or more tests indicates that you have diabetes.
If your A1C results aren’t consistent, your provider might recommend additional screenings, including a random or fasting blood sugar test.
How is diabetes treated?
Treatment of diabetes depends on the type you have and its severity.
MS Family Medicine Healthcare PC always recommends healthy lifestyle changes first, including losing weight, eating a balanced diet, and exercising regularly.
If you have Type 1 diabetes, you need insulin therapy. There are various types of insulin available, including rapid-acting, long-acting, and intermediate options. Your provider can make recommendations that align with your needs.
If you have Type 2 diabetes, you may or may not need insulin. Healthy lifestyle changes and regular blood sugar monitoring may be enough to keep your levels in check.
To receive comprehensive care for diabetes, schedule an appointment at MS Family Medicine Healthcare PC. Book a consultation online, or call the nearest office to speak with a caring staff member today.
