Diabetes Management | Grapevine, TX

Diabetes is caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. In type 1 diabetes, the body's immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys insulin-producing cells in the pancreas, leading to a lack of insulin. Type 2 diabetes, the more common form, is often linked to lifestyle factors such as poor diet, lack of physical activity, and obesity, which lead to insulin resistance. In both types, genetics can play a significant role, with a family history increasing the likelihood of developing the condition. Other factors, such as age and certain health conditions, can also contribute to the onset of diabetes.

Diabetes, or elevated blood sugar levels due to a lack of insulin or insulin resistance, contributes to many serious chronic health issues in the American population. Uncontrolled diabetes can result in long-term damage to the eyes, kidneys, peripheral circulation, heart, and more.

The professional team at Mid Cities Direct Primary Care screens patients for diabetes beginning at age 45, even when symptoms of weight loss, thirst, sweating, anxiety, and blurred vision are absent. The American Diabetes Association strongly recommends this protocol. Adult-onset diabetes, also called type 2 diabetes, is often asymptomatic so individuals are not aware that they have this serious health problem.

Starting at the patient age 45, Mid Cities Direct Primary Care physicians do a simple blood test called a fasting blood sugar. This measures how much glucose is bonded to the oxygen-carrying blood protein called hemoglobin. A measure of 100 or less indicates a normal blood sugar level, and 100 to 125 indicates pre-diabetes. A result of 125 or higher needs attention as the person is likely diabetic.

Sometimes, the doctor orders an A1C blood test which averages blood sugar levels over the last 2 to 3 months. Normal results are 4.5 to 6, but higher levels are diagnostic for type 1 and 2 diabetes or indicate poorly controlled diabetes in someone already taking insulin or oral diabetic medications.

An Initial Glucose Challenge test screens pregnant women for gestational diabetes. After consuming a sugary syrup, the pregnant woman gets a blood draw. The results of 140 or below are considered normal.

To avoid serious diabetic complications, doctors at Mid Cities Direct Primary Care advise patients to:

• Lose weight and control blood pressure and cholesterol levels
• Eat a healthy, balanced diet of lean meats, fresh fruits and vegetables, and "good" carbs, such as whole-grain products
• Engage in regular aerobic exercise
• Test their blood sugars and record them
• Keep their doctor's appointments
• Take their insulin injections and/or other diabetic medications as directed

What are the most common risk factors for diabetes?

• Genetics and ethnicity
• Obesity (BMI of 25 or higher)
• Sedentary lifestyle
• Poor eating habits (high calorie, high carbohydrate intake)
• High cholesterol
• Hypertension
• Gestational diabetes (during pregnancy) and babies over nine pounds at birth

How many people have diabetes?

According to CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) statistics, about 37 million Americans (10%) have been diagnosed with diabetes. Diabetes cases were higher among African American and Hispanic/Latino populations.

How many adults with diabetes have other health issues?

Among adults diagnosed with diabetes, almost 70% had high blood pressure, 40% chronic kidney disease, 45% high cholesterol, and 12% eye and vision problems.

Not only do the physicians at Mid Cities Direct Primary Care screen for type 1 and type 2 diabetes, but they also assist individuals with managing symptoms and medications and with nutritional counseling. A diabetic can lead a healthy, active life. Call our Grapevine, TX location for a routine check-up, including a diabetes screening.

If You're Concerned You May Have Diabetes, Then Call Dr. James R. Terry Of Mid Cities Direct Primary Care In Grapevine, TX To Schedule Your Consultation At (817) 754-5958!