More than 29 million Americans have diabetes, the most common endocrine
disorder in the United States. Diabetes is a chronic condition that requires
careful management and ongoing oversight from an endocrinologist primary
care physician.
Type 1 Diabetes
The least common form of diabetes, type 1 accounts for only about 5% of
all U.S. diabetes cases. In this chronic condition, the pancreas stops
producing insulin. This hormone metabolizes the carbohydrates in your
food and turns them into blood sugar (glucose) to provide the body with
energy. Without insulin to let glucose into the cells, the body can’t
get the energy it needs. People with type 1 diabetes are “insulin
dependent,” meaning they must take insulin to live. It seems to
have a genetic component and is typically diagnosed early in life, but
sometimes in adulthood. Its causes are not fully known, and there is currently no cure.
Type 2 Diabetes
This common condition accounts for 95% of cases of diabetes. Type 2 diabetes
develops when the body starts to resist the insulin it produces and stops
carrying glucose into the body’s cells. The pancreas tries to compensate
for the added demand for insulin by making more. Over time, the pancreas
can’t keep up with the body’s increased need for insulin and
excess sugar accumulates in the bloodstream where it causes long-term damage.
Prediabetes
Blood glucose levels will consistently be above average for a person with
prediabetes, but not yet high enough to warrant a diagnosis of type 2
diabetes. People with prediabetes can keep it from progressing through
lifestyle changes and medical oversight.
Gestational Diabetes
This type of type 2 diabetes only occurs in pregnant women and usually
goes away after childbirth. However, half the women who develop gestational
diabetes go on to develop type 2 diabetes later in life.
Comprehensive Diabetes Management
Our endocrinologists diagnose, treat, and oversee the management of diabetes.
In addition, we have Certified RN Diabetes Educators (CDCES) in our Health
Centers who specialize in diabetes care and education and provide one-on-one
consultations. These are available in English and Spanish for patients
with a diagnosis of diabetes. We offer education and training on the core
principles of the Association of Diabetes Care and Education Specialist’s
ADCES7 – Self Care Behaviors including: healthy eating, being active,
taking medication, healthy coping, monitoring, problem solving, and reducing
risks. During these sessions we incorporate shared decision making, and
work on individualized, self-determined goals that are most important to you.
Please speak with your care provider if you have diabetes and would like
to be referred to our diabetes educator. Additionally, you can reach us at
805-948-4869 and we can schedule your appointment.
