Diabetes Care

Diabetes is a chronic medical condition characterized by high levels of blood sugar (glucose). This happens either because the body's cells do not respond effectively to the hormone insulin (insulin resistance), or because the body does not produce enough insulin, or a combination of both. Insulin is crucial for regulating blood sugar levels by facilitating the uptake of glucose from the bloodstream into cells, where it is used for energy.

There are three main types of diabetes:

Type 1 Diabetes: This is an autoimmune condition in which the immune system attacks and destroys the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. People with type 1 diabetes require lifelong insulin injections or the use of an insulin pump to manage their blood sugar levels.

Type 2 Diabetes: This is the most common form of diabetes and is often associated with lifestyle factors such as obesity, physical inactivity, and poor diet. In type 2 diabetes, the body becomes resistant to the effects of insulin, Over time, the beta cells can become dysfunctional and produce less insulin. Treatment includes lifestyle changes (diet and exercise), oral medications, and in some cases, insulin therapy.

Gestational Diabetes: This type occurs during pregnancy when hormonal changes can lead to insulin resistance. It usually resolves after childbirth, but women who have had gestational diabetes have an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life.

Treatment for diabetes focuses on managing blood sugar levels to prevent complications and maintain overall health. Here are some key aspects of diabetes treatment:

1. Lifestyle Modifications:

   - Diet: A balanced and healthy diet plays a crucial role in managing diabetes. Monitoring carbohydrate intake, eating fiber-rich foods, and controlling portion sizes can help regulate blood sugar levels.

   - Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight can improve insulin sensitivity and overall diabetes management.

   - Exercise: Regular physical activity improves insulin sensitivity and helps control blood sugar levels. It's important to engage in both aerobic exercises (like walking, swimming) and strength training.

2. Medications:

   - Oral Medications: In type 2 diabetes, various oral medications can help lower blood sugar levels by multiple mechanisms such as improving insulin sensitivity, stimulating insulin production, decreasing the absorption of carbohydrates in the intestines and increasing urinary glucose excretion. 

   - Injectable Medications: Some medications are taken by injection including incretins. Incretins are hormones that play a crucial role in regulating blood sugar levels after meals. The two main incretins are GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) and GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic peptide). These hormones are released from the intestines in response to food intake and work through a series of physiological actions to help control glucose homeostasis. 

3. Insulin Therapy: People with type 1 diabetes and some with type 2 diabetes may require insulin therapy. This involves injecting insulin using a syringe, insulin pen, or insulin pump. The goal is to mimic the body's natural insulin production.

4. Blood Sugar Monitoring: Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels using a glucose meter helps individuals make informed decisions about their diet, exercise, and medication doses.

The treatment approach is personalized based on the type of diabetes, individual health status, and other factors. Regular medical check-ups and working closely with an endocrinologist is crucial for effective diabetes management. The goal is to maintain stable blood sugar levels within a target range to prevent short-term symptoms and long-term complications such as cardiovascular disease, kidney problems, nerve damage, and eye issues. Dr. Saint Andre as a Houston based board certified endocrinologist has experience providing care for patients with diabetes.