Diabetes Management

Diabetes affects around 11.6% of the United States population, some 38.4 million people. If you need help managing this chronic disease, visit board-certified physician Vincent Esparza, MD, at Persona Healthcare in Austin, Texas. Dr. Esparza provides comprehensive diabetes management that helps you enjoy a longer, happier life. Call Persona Healthcare to request an evaluation or schedule an in-person or telemedicine appointment online today.

What is diabetes?

Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects the function of your pancreas, an essential organ in your endocrine system. This system produces hormones that regulate various natural processes, including metabolism and energy use. In diabetes, the issue lies with insulin, a hormone the pancreas produces. 

Insulin is responsible for maintaining healthy blood glucose (sugar) levels. Glucose is a vital energy source for your body and brain, but imbalances — either too much or too little — can have serious health consequences. The two primary types of diabetes are: 

Type 1 diabetes

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition that often begins in childhood. It occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. Without these cells, your body cannot produce insulin, leading to blood sugar imbalances. 

Type 2 diabetes

The immune system doesn’t cause Type 2 diabetes. Instead, it occurs when the body becomes resistant to insulin, meaning it can’t use the hormone effectively. In most cases, people with Type 2 diabetes still produce insulin, but it doesn’t function as it should. This form of diabetes is often linked to obesity, poor diet, and lack of physical activity. 

Prediabetes is a stage that develops before full-blown Type 2 diabetes when blood sugar starts rising beyond healthy levels. Catching the condition at this stage makes treatment far easier.

How is diabetes treated? 

The treatment Dr. Esparza recommends for diabetes depends on the type you have. 

Type 1 diabetes

Managing Type 1 diabetes involves regularly monitoring blood sugar levels and administering insulin to replace what the pancreas cannot produce. Pumps that deliver a controlled supply of insulin are a convenient alternative to self-injection.     

Type 2 diabetes

Lifestyle changes are critical in managing Type 2 diabetes. Losing weight, exercising consistently, and adopting a healthier diet with whole grains, fruits, and vegetables can significantly improve blood glucose control. Medications like metformin help control blood sugar levels, and in severe cases, you might require insulin therapy.

Dr. Esparza also offers personalized weight management programs, nutritional counseling, and strategies to improve overall health, such as quitting smoking. These steps enhance diabetes management and overall well-being. 

Why is diabetes management important? 

Uncontrolled diabetes leads to serious health complications, including: 

• Heart disease 
• Stroke 
• Kidney disease 
• Diabetic retinopathy (vision loss) 
• Nerve damage (diabetic neuropathy) 
• Skin problems 
• Sexual dysfunction 
• Depression 

Managing diabetes requires ongoing monitoring and support. Dr. Esparza provides comprehensive chronic disease management to help patients lead healthier lives. 

For expert diabetes management, contact Persona Healthcare or schedule an in-person or telemedicine appointment online today.