What is diabetes?
Diabetes causes your blood sugar levels to be higher than normal. It’s a chronic condition that develops because of problems related to insulin, which is a hormone made in your pancreas. Insulin’s job is to transport sugar, also called glucose, from your blood into your cells to provide energy.
The excess sugar in your blood damages your blood vessels and organs, which increases your risk of developing other health complications such as:
- Heart disease
- Kidney disease
- Neuropathy
- Diabetic retinopathy (damaged blood vessels in the eye)
- Dental disease
- Foot problems
Dr. Weiss specializes in the treatment of diabetes. He takes a personalized approach to the management of the chronic condition that includes a very detailed and complete treatment plan.
What are the types of diabetes?
There are many types of diabetes. However the most common types include:
Type 1 diabetes
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition that develops when the immune system attacks and destroys the cells in the pancreas that make insulin. People with Type 1 diabetes require daily insulin injections.
Type 1 diabetes most often affects children and young adults. However, you can develop Type 1 diabetes at any age.
Type 2 diabetes
Type 2 diabetes is the most common type. With Type 2 diabetes, your pancreas may not produce enough insulin or your body may not use insulin the way it’s supposed to, which is called insulin resistance.
Initially, your pancreas produces extra insulin to improve your blood sugar levels. However, over time your pancreas can’t keep up with demands, resulting in chronically elevated blood sugar levels.
Gestational diabetes
Gestational diabetes is a type of diabetes that develops in women during pregnancy. Once the baby is born, gestational diabetes generally goes away.
However, having gestational diabetes during pregnancy increases your risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.
What can I expect during a diabetes consultation?
When you come in for a diabetes consultation at Abington Endocrinology, you can expect a comprehensive and compassionate evaluation from Dr. Weiss.
The experienced endocrinologist asks detailed questions about your symptoms, medical history, family history, and the types of medication and supplements you take. He also asks about your usual diet, exercise habits, and daily stresses.
Diagnostic lab work may be ordered to further evaluate the severity of your diabetes and confirm or rule out other health complications.
How is diabetes treated?
Dr. Weiss develops a personalized treatment plan for diabetes with a strong focus on lifestyle. Your treatment plan may include:
- Nutrition therapy
- An exercise program
- Stress management
- Prescription medication
For Type 1 diabetes, Dr. Weiss develops an insulin regimen that matches your lifestyle and health needs. He may also prescribe insulin for patients with Type 2 diabetes who can’t make enough insulin.
He also provides immediate care for patients who are experiencing an urgent diabetes crisis.
For expert care of your diabetes, contact Abington Endocrinology by phone or book an appointment online today.
