Diabetes is a chronic disease in which the body does not properly use or produce insulin, which can lead to elevated blood sugar levels. Insulin assists the body with converting blood sugar into energy. If there is a problem with insulin production or use, too much glucose or sugar can build up in the blood. High blood sugar can produce a wide range of symptoms. Dr. Tomas Rios and Dr. Nicolin Neal, the board-certified providers at Rios Healthcare Associates in Houston, TX, treat diabetes.
Symptoms of Diabetes
Many symptoms are associated with diabetes and high blood sugar levels. Common symptoms include:
- Excessive thirst
- Increased appetite
- Frequent urination
- Tingling/numbness in the feet or hands
- Slow healing wounds
- Blurred vision
- Weight loss
- Irritability
- Fatigue
Many of the symptoms of diabetes can signify or lead to additional problems. Patients with diabetes are more likely to have poor blood circulation, which causes wounds to heal more slowly. Wounds that take longer to heal are more likely to become infected. Left untreated, an infection could lead to gangrene or other serious conditions.
One sign of poor circulation is numbness or a tingling sensation in the hands or feet. Taking time to stretch or move around periodically throughout the day helps promote better circulation, which can reduce tingling or numbness in the hands and feet and potentially improve healing time for wounds.
Managing Diabetes
Many steps can be taken to effectively manage diabetes. The experienced doctors at our healthcare practice in Houston, TX, can help you manage your diabetes by developing a treatment plan tailored to your needs. Your individual diabetes management and treatment plan will depend on several factors, including the type of diabetes you have.
Type 1 diabetes is often diagnosed in youth and only affects a small percentage of all patients with diabetes. This type of diabetes cannot be prevented. With type 1 diabetes the pancreas either does not make enough insulin or is unable to produce it at all. Treating and managing type 1 diabetes typically includes insulin medication, such as insulin injections or an insulin pump.
Type 2 diabetes is far more common than type 1, but can be prevented by eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and maintaining a healthy body weight. With type 2 diabetes the body has either become insulin resistant or does not use insulin efficiently. Type 2 diabetes can often be managed by making healthy diet and lifestyle changes. Some patients with this type of diabetes also benefit from insulin medication.
If you are dealing with diabetes, you don’t have to do it alone. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Rios or Dr. Neal to discuss options for managing your diabetes by calling Rios Healthcare Associates in Houston, TX, at (832) 323-9230.