Diabetes Management
October 21, 2022
Early symptoms of diabetes can include frequent urination and increased thirst. An official diagnosis is done through routine bloodwork that looks at A1C and fasting blood glucose. Other symptoms may include numb or tingling hands or feet, feeling tired, blurry vision, dry itchy skin, and increased hunger.
There are two types of diabetes: Type 1 and Type 2. Type 1 diabetes is a condition where the pancreas produces little to no insulin and may occur due to a genetic link or exposure to viruses or other environmental factors. It is more likely to occur as a child, teen or young adult but can happen at any time. It is the body’s own immune system mistakenly attacking the cells in the pancreas.
Type 2 diabetes is the more common type and is generally caused by lifestyle factors and genes. You are more likely to develop Type 2 diabetes if you are not physically active and are overweight or obese. It starts with insulin resistance where the muscle, liver and fat cells do not use insulin well. As a result, your body needs more insulin to help glucose get into cells. At first the pancreas keeps up with the added demand, but over time the pancreas does not create enough insulin and blood glucose levels rise.
There is no cure for diabetes and treatment focuses on controlling blood glucose levels with diet and lifestyle, insulin and/or oral or injectable medications.
Diabetes can cause both macrovascular (disease of the large blood vessels, including cardiovascular) and microvascular (disease of the small blood vessels, including retinopathy, kidney damage, nerve damage) complications if it is untreated or mismanaged and patients are not reaching optimal targets.
Slowing the progression of the disease and preventing other complications is the goal. Diabetes is a progressive disease which is why it is important to treat properly and in a timely manner.
You can ease the stress of managing your diabetes treatment with the support of Well and Truly RX. We’re with you every step of the way, from initial consultation to personalized counselling, and follow-up care. Our pharmacy team works with your physician and your insurance provider to optimize your medical therapy. We’ll help you understand your blood sugar readings and provide training on how to use your glucose monitor and download results. Schedule a diabetes management consultation (in person or virtual) today. Book now.
The content on this website is for informational purposes only. No material on this site is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician with any questions regarding a medical condition or treatment, and before undertaking a new health-care regimen.
