Diabetes Awareness: Early Signs, Risk Factors, and Lifestyle Management

Diabetes is a chronic health condition that affects how your body turns food into energy. It impacts millions, but with early detection and proper management, individuals can lead full and healthy lives. At Sheridan Medical Group, we are dedicated to helping you Get Well, Be Well, and Stay Well through comprehensive care and empowering education. Understanding diabetes is a crucial step in preventing its progression and managing its impact.

When you have diabetes, your body either doesn't make enough insulin or can't effectively use the insulin it makes. Insulin is a hormone that allows blood sugar (glucose) to enter your cells for energy. Without enough insulin or proper insulin use, glucose builds up in your bloodstream, leading to high blood sugar levels, which can damage organs and lead to serious complications over time.

Types of Diabetes

While there are several types, the most common include:

• Type 1 Diabetes: An autoimmune condition where the body doesn't produce insulin. It typically develops in children or young adults, but can occur at any age. It requires daily insulin injections.
• Type 2 Diabetes: The most common type, where the body doesn't use insulin effectively (insulin resistance) or doesn't produce enough insulin. It often develops in adults but is increasingly seen in younger individuals. Lifestyle factors play a significant role.
• Gestational Diabetes: Develops in some women during pregnancy and usually resolves after childbirth, though it increases the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes later in life.

Early Signs and Symptoms

The early signs of diabetes can be subtle, especially for Type 2, which is why awareness is so important. If you notice any of these, it's vital to speak with your Sheridan Medical Group provider:

• Frequent Urination (Polyuria): Your kidneys work overtime to remove excess sugar from your blood, leading to more frequent bathroom trips.
• Increased Thirst (Polydipsia): Due to fluid loss from frequent urination, you'll feel unusually thirsty.
• Increased Hunger (Polyphagia): Despite eating, your cells aren't getting glucose for energy, leaving you constantly hungry.
• Unexplained Weight Loss: Your body might start breaking down muscle and fat for energy.
• Fatigue: Lack of energy from cells not getting glucose.
• Blurred Vision: High blood sugar can affect the fluid levels in your eyes.
• Slow-Healing Sores or Frequent Infections: High blood sugar can impair your body's healing process and immune system.
• Tingling or Numbness: Especially in the hands or feet, a sign of nerve damage.

Risk Factors

While some risk factors are beyond your control, many can be managed. Knowing your risks is the first step toward prevention:

• Family History: Having a parent or sibling with Type 2 diabetes.
• Age: Risk increases with age, especially after 45.
• Weight: Being overweight or obese significantly increases risk.
• Physical Inactivity: A sedentary lifestyle contributes to insulin resistance.
• Race/Ethnicity: Certain groups have a higher risk (e.g., African Americans, Hispanic/Latino Americans, American Indians, Asian Americans).
• Previous Gestational Diabetes: Or having given birth to a baby weighing over 9 pounds.
• High Blood Pressure or High Cholesterol: These conditions are often linked to insulin resistance.
• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): For women, this condition increases diabetes risk.

Lifestyle Management and Prevention

The good news is that many cases of Type 2 diabetes can be prevented or significantly delayed through lifestyle changes. For those with diabetes, these strategies are crucial for managing the condition and preventing complications:

1. Healthy Eating:
   • Balanced Diet: Focus on whole, unprocessed foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
   • Portion Control: Pay attention to serving sizes to manage calorie and carbohydrate intake.
   • Limit Added Sugars: Reduce intake of sugary drinks, desserts, and processed foods.
   • Fiber-Rich Foods: Increase fiber from vegetables, fruits, and whole grains to help control blood sugar levels.
   • Hydration: Drink plenty of water (as we've previously discussed, good hydration supports overall health).
2. Regular Physical Activity: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity each week. Exercise helps your body use insulin more effectively and can aid in weight management.
3. Maintain a Healthy Weight: Losing even a modest amount of weight can dramatically improve blood sugar control and reduce your risk.
4. Quit Smoking: Smoking increases insulin resistance and elevates your risk of diabetes complications. Your Sheridan Medical Group team can support your quitting journey.
5. Manage Stress: Chronic stress can affect blood sugar levels. Incorporate stress-reducing techniques like mindfulness, yoga, or spending time in nature.
6. Regular Check-ups: Consistent visits to your primary care provider at Sheridan Medical Group for screenings and discussions about your risk factors are paramount.

Partnering with Sheridan Medical Group for Your Health

Regular screenings and open communication with your primary care provider are essential, especially if you have risk factors for diabetes. At Sheridan Medical Group, we provide comprehensive care, including diagnostic testing, personalized lifestyle counseling, and medication management when necessary. We're here to empower you with the knowledge and support to Get Well, Be Well, and Stay Well, helping you navigate your health journey with confidence.