Diabetes

Diabetes

Diabetes

Type 1 diabetes is also known as juvenile diabetes. Type 2 diabetes, the more ordinary form of the disease, is caused by the body's ineffective use of insulin. Symptoms of diabetes include increased thirst, frequent urination, and blurred vision. If left untreated, diabetes can lead to serious health complications, such as heart disease, nerve damage, and kidney damage. Treatment for diabetes typically includes a combination of diet, exercise, and medication.

Diabetes definition

It occurs when the body either does not produce enough insulin, a hormone that regulates blood sugar, or does not effectively use the insulin it does produce. This results in an accumulation of glucose in the blood, leading to a range of symptoms, including increased thirst, frequent urination, blurred vision, and fatigue. There are two main types of diabetes: type 1, which is caused by the body's inability to produce insulin, and type 2, which is caused by the body's ineffective use of insulin.

Signs of diabetes

Some common signs and symptoms of diabetes include:

  • Frequent urination
  • Increased thirst
  • Extreme fatigue
  • Blurred vision
  • Slow healing of cuts and wounds
  • Tingling or numbness in the hands or feet
  • Unusual weight loss or weight gain
  • Recurrent infections, such as skin or urinary tract infections
  • Dark, velvety patches of skin, usually in the folds of the body, such as the armpits or neck (a condition called acanthosis nigricans)
  • Dry, itchy skin

However, it's important to note that some people with diabetes may not have any symptoms at all, or their symptoms may be so mild that they go unnoticed.

Diabetes causes

There are two main types of diabetes, Type 1 and Type 2, and the causes for each type are different.

Type 1 diabetes is caused by an autoimmune disorder in which the body's immune system attacks and destroys the cells in the pancreas that produce insulin. This type of diabetes is typically diagnosed in children and young adults, and it is not caused by lifestyle factors.

Type 2 diabetes is caused by a combination of factors, including lifestyle and genetics. The main factor is the body's inability to properly use insulin, a condition known as insulin resistance. As the body becomes resistant to insulin, blood sugar levels rise, leading to diabetes. Risk factors for type 2 diabetes include being overweight or obese, having a family history of diabetes, having high blood pressure, and not getting enough physical activity.

Gestational diabetes is a form of diabetes that occurs during pregnancy and usually disappears after the baby is born.

Certain medical conditions, such as cystic fibrosis, pancreatitis, and hemochromatosis, can also cause diabetes.

Diabetes symptoms

Some common symptoms of diabetes include:

  • Frequent urination
  • Increased thirst
  • Extreme fatigue
  • Blurred vision
  • Slow healing of cuts and wounds
  • Tingling or numbness in the hands or feet
  • Unusual weight loss or weight gain
  • Recurrent infections, such as skin or urinary tract infections
  • Dark, velvety patches of skin, usually in the folds of the body, such as the armpits or neck (a condition called acanthosis nigricans)
  • Dry, itchy skin
  • Hunger pangs or feeling of emptiness in stomach
  • Dizzy spells or fainting

However, it is important to note that some people with diabetes may not have any symptoms at all, or their symptoms may be so mild that they go unnoticed. It's always best to consult a doctor if you suspect you have diabetes or if you have any of the above-mentioned symptoms

Diabetes testing

There are several tests that can be used to diagnose diabetes, including:

  • Fasting blood sugar test: This test measures the level of glucose in your blood after you have fasted (not had anything to eat or drink) for at least 8 hours. A level of 126 mg/dL or higher on two separate occasions indicates diabetes.
  • Oral glucose tolerance test: This test measures your body's ability to handle glucose. After fasting, you will be given a sugary drink and your blood sugar will be measured at regular intervals for 2 hours. A level of 200 mg/dL or higher on this test indicates diabetes.
  • A1C test: This test measures the average blood sugar level over the past 2-3 months. An A1C level of 6.5% or higher on two separate occasions indicates diabetes.
  • Random blood sugar test: This test measures the level of glucose in your blood at any time of the day.
  • Glycated hemoglobin (A1C) test: This test measures the average of the blood glucose level in the last 2-3 months. A result of 6.5% or higher on two separate tests indicates diabetes.

It's important to note that a diagnosis of diabetes can only be confirmed by a healthcare professional after conducting one or more of the above tests. It is also important to follow up with a doctor regularly to check your blood sugar level and to monitor your diabetes treatment.

Diabetes treatments

Treatment for diabetes typically includes a combination of lifestyle changes and medication. The goal of treatment is to keep blood sugar levels within a normal range to prevent or delay the onset of diabetes-related complications.

  1. Lifestyle changes: Eating a healthy diet, getting regular physical activity, and maintaining a healthy weight are important ways to manage diabetes.
  2. Medications:
  • Type 2 diabetes: Oral medications, such as metformin, sulfonylureas, DPP-4 inhibitors, GLP-1 receptor agonists, SGLT-2 inhibitors, and thiazolidinediones, are commonly used to lower blood sugar levels.
  • Type 1 diabetes: Insulin therapy is the main treatment for type 1 diabetes. Insulin is usually given via injection or an insulin pump.
  1. Bariatric Surgery: for people with type 2 diabetes and have a BMI greater than 35, bariatric surgery can be considered as an option.
  2. Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) and insulin pumps: these devices can help people with type 1 diabetes to monitor glucose levels and adjust insulin doses accordingly.

It's important to work closely with a healthcare team that includes a primary care physician, a diabetes educator, and a dietitian to develop an individualized treatment plan that meets your needs and goals. Regular check-ups are important to monitor diabetes and to detect any complications early on.

It's important to note that there is no cure for diabetes, but with proper management, people with diabetes can lead healthy and productive lives.

Ozempic and Mounjaro for Diabetic medication

Ozempic and Mounjaro are medications used to treat type 2 diabetes.

Ozempic (generic name: semaglutide) is a once-weekly injectable medication that belongs to a class of drugs called GLP-1 receptor agonists. It works by increasing the amount of insulin produced by the pancreas and decreasing the amount of glucose produced by the liver. Ozempic also helps to lower appetite, which can lead to weight loss.

Mounjaro (generic name: empagliflozin/linagliptin) is an oral combination medication that contains two active ingredients, empagliflozin and linagliptin. Empagliflozin belongs to a class of drugs called SGLT2 inhibitors, which work by blocking the reabsorption of glucose by the kidneys, causing the body to excrete more glucose in the urine. Linagliptin belongs to a class of drugs called DPP-4 inhibitors, which work by increasing the levels of insulin and decreasing the levels of glucose in the blood.

Both are used  to improve blood sugar control in adults with type 2 diabetes. They may be used as monotherapy or in combination with other diabetes medications, such as metformin or sulfonylureas.

It's important to note that these medications should be used under the supervision of a healthcare provider and it is important to follow their instructions and schedule of dosage. It's also important to have regular check-ups to monitor blood sugar levels and detect any complications early on.

Oral diabetic medicines that help with weight loss:

There are several oral medications for diabetes that can also aid in weight loss:

  1. Metformin: Metformin is a first-line oral medication for type 2 diabetes. It works by decreasing the amount of glucose produced by the liver and increasing insulin sensitivity. It also has the side effect of decreasing appetite which leads to weight loss.
  2. GLP-1 receptor agonists: These medications include exenatide (Byetta, Bydureon) and liraglutide (Victoza). They work by stimulating the release of insulin and decreasing the amount of glucose produced by the liver. They also have the side effect of decreasing appetite, leading to weight loss.
  3. SGLT2 inhibitors: These medications include empagliflozin (Jardiance), dapagliflozin (Farxiga, Xigduo XR) and canagliflozin (Invokana, Invokamet). They work by blocking the reabsorption of glucose by the kidneys, causing the body to excrete more glucose in the urine. This results in weight loss due to loss of calories in the form of glucose.
  4. DPP-4 inhibitors: These medications include sitagliptin (Januvia), saxagliptin (Onglyza), and linagliptin (Tradjenta). They work by increasing the levels of insulin and decreasing the levels of glucose in the blood. They also have the side effect of decreasing appetite, leading to weight loss.

It's important to note that these medications should be used under the supervision of a healthcare provider and it is important to follow their instructions and schedule of dosage. Also, weight loss is not guaranteed while taking these medications and they should be used in conjunction with a healthy diet and regular exercise.

It's also important to have regular check-ups to monitor blood sugar levels and detect any complications early on.

Which is best: Ozempic, Trulicity, or Mounjaro

It's difficult to say which medication is "best" as the choice of medication will depend on a variety of factors, including the individual's specific medical condition, overall health, and personal preferences.

Ozempic (semaglutide) is a once-weekly injectable medication that belongs to a class of drugs called GLP-1 receptor agonists. It works by increasing the amount of insulin produced by the pancreas and decreasing the amount of glucose produced by the liver. Ozempic also helps to lower appetite, which can lead to weight loss.

Trulicity (dulaglutide) is a once-weekly injectable medication that also belongs to the GLP-1 receptor agonist class. It works by increasing the amount of insulin produced by the pancreas and decreasing the amount of glucose produced by the liver. It also helps to decrease appetite, which can lead to weight loss.

Mounjaro (empagliflozin/linagliptin) is an oral combination medication that contains two active ingredients, empagliflozin and linagliptin. Empagliflozin belongs to a class of drugs called SGLT2 inhibitors, which work by blocking the reabsorption of glucose by the kidneys, causing the body to excrete more glucose in the urine. Linagliptin belongs to a class of drugs called DPP-4 inhibitors, which work by increasing the levels of insulin and decreasing the levels of glucose in the blood.

It is important to consult a healthcare professional to determine which medication is the most appropriate for you. They will take into account your medical history, current health status, and your preferences and decide which medication is the best fit for you based on your individual circumstances.

Complications of Diabetes

 Some of the most common complications of diabetes include:

  1. Cardiovascular disease: People with diabetes have a higher risk of developing heart disease and stroke.
  2. Nephropathy (kidney disease): Diabetes can cause damage to the kidneys, leading to kidney failure.
  3. Neuropathy (nerve damage): Diabetes can cause damage to the nerves, leading to numbness, tingling, and pain in the feet and hands.
  4. Retinopathy (eye damage): Diabetes can cause damage to the blood vessels in the eye, leading to blindness.
  5. Foot problems: Diabetes can cause poor circulation and nerve damage in the feet, leading to sores and infections that may not heal properly.
  6. Skin problems: Diabetes can cause a variety of skin conditions, including diabetic dermopathy, necrobiosis lipoidica diabeticorum, and diabetic blisters.
  7. Dental problems: Diabetes can cause dry mouth, infection, and delay in healing after oral surgery.
  8. Cognitive impairment: Diabetes has been associated with cognitive impairment, including cognitive decline and dementia.
  9. Depression: People with diabetes are at a higher risk of depression.

It is important to work closely with a healthcare team to manage diabetes and prevent or delay the onset of complications. Regular check-ups, maintaining a healthy lifestyle and adhering to medication schedule are important in preventing or delaying the onset of complications.

Type 2 diabetes

Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body either does not produce enough insulin, a hormone that regulates blood sugar, or does not effectively use the insulin it does produce. This results in an accumulation of glucose in the blood, leading to a range of symptoms, including increased thirst, frequent urination, blurred vision, and fatigue.

Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes, and it typically develops in adulthood. Risk factors for type 2 diabetes include being overweight or obese, having a family history of diabetes, having high blood pressure, and not getting enough physical activity.

Type 2 diabetes is typically managed with a combination of lifestyle changes (such as maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and maintaining a healthy weight) and medication. Oral medications such as metformin, sulfonylureas, DPP-4 inhibitors, GLP-1 receptor agonists, SGLT-2 inhibitors, and thiazolidinediones are commonly used to lower blood sugar levels. In some cases, insulin therapy may also be necessary.

It's important to work closely with a healthcare team to manage type 2 diabetes and prevent or delay the onset of complications. Regular check-ups, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and adhering to medication schedule are important in preventing or delaying the onset of complications.

Type 1 diabetes

Type 1 diabetes occurs when the body's immune system attacks and destroys the cells in the pancreas that produce insulin, the hormone that regulates blood sugar. Without insulin, the body is unable to use glucose for energy, leading to a buildup of glucose in the blood.

Type 1 diabetes is typically diagnosed in children and young adults, and it is not caused by lifestyle factors. Symptoms of type 1 diabetes include increased thirst, frequent urination, blurred vision, and fatigue. If left untreated, type 1 diabetes can lead to serious health complications, such as heart disease, nerve damage, and kidney damage.

Type 1 diabetes is typically managed with insulin therapy. Insulin is usually given via injection or an insulin pump. People with type 1 diabetes need to monitor their blood sugar levels several times a day and adjust their insulin doses accordingly.

A healthy diet, regular physical activity, and maintaining a healthy weight are also important in managing type 1 diabetes.

It's important to work closely with a healthcare team, including a diabetes educator and a dietitian, to develop an individualized treatment plan that meets your needs and goals. Regular check-ups are important to monitor diabetes and to detect any complications early on.

It's important to note that there is no cure for type 1 diabetes, but with proper management, people with type 1 diabetes can lead healthy and productive lives.

Type 1 vs type 2 diabetes

Type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes are both chronic medical conditions characterized by high levels of sugar (glucose) in the blood, but they have different causes and risk factors.

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disorder in which the body's immune system attacks and destroys the cells in the pancreas that produce insulin. This type of diabetes is typically diagnosed in children and young adults, and it is not caused by lifestyle factors.

Type 2 diabetes is caused by a combination of factors, including genetics and lifestyle. The main factor is the body's inability to properly use insulin, a condition known as insulin resistance. As the body becomes resistant to insulin, blood sugar levels rise, leading to diabetes. Risk factors for type 2 diabetes include being overweight or obese, having a family history of diabetes, having high blood pressure, and not getting enough physical activity.

The treatment approach for type 1 diabetes mainly focuses on insulin replacement therapy, whereas for type 2 diabetes, it mainly focuses on lifestyle changes and oral medications, such as metformin, sulfonylureas, DPP-4 inhibitors, GLP-1 receptor agonists, SGLT-2 inhibitors, and thiazolidinediones. Bariatric surgery can also be considered for type 2 diabetes in certain cases.

In both types of diabetes, regular check-ups, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and adhering to medication schedule are important in preventing or delaying the onset of complications.

It's important to work closely with a healthcare team to manage diabetes and prevent or

Diabetes insipidus

Diabetes insipidus (DI) is a rare condition characterized by excessive thirst and the production of large amounts of dilute urine. It occurs when the kidneys are unable to properly regulate the balance of water in the body.

There are two main types of diabetes insipidus:

  1. Nephrogenic diabetes insipidus: This type of diabetes insipidus is caused by a defect in the kidneys' ability to respond to antidiuretic hormone (ADH), a hormone that regulates water balance in the body. Nephrogenic diabetes insipidus can be inherited or acquired because of certain medical conditions or medications.
  2. Central diabetes insipidus: This type of diabetes insipidus is caused by a defect in the hypothalamus or pituitary gland, which are responsible for secreting ADH. Central diabetes insipidus can be caused by head trauma, tumors, infections, or other medical conditions.

Symptoms of diabetes insipidus include excessive thirst, frequent urination, and the production of large amounts of dilute urine. The symptoms of diabetes insipidus can be treated with medication, such as desmopressin, and by drinking enough fluids to prevent dehydration.

It's important to consult a healthcare professional to properly diagnose and treat diabetes insipidus. They will take into account your medical history, current health status, and symptoms to determine the underlying cause and the best course of treatment.

Diabetes mellitus

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic medical condition characterized by high levels of sugar (glucose) in the blood. It occurs when the body either does not produce enough insulin, a hormone that regulates blood sugar, or does not effectively use the insulin it does produce. This results in an accumulation of glucose in the blood, leading to a range of symptoms, including increased thirst, frequent urination, blurred vision, and fatigue.

There are two main types of diabetes mellitus:

  1. Type 1 diabetes: It is an autoimmune disorder in which the body's immune system attacks and destroys the cells in the pancreas that produce insulin. This type of diabetes is typically diagnosed in children and young adults, and it is not caused by lifestyle factors.
  2. Type 2 diabetes: It is caused by a combination of factors, including genetics and lifestyle. The main factor is the body's inability to effectively use insulin, a condition known as insulin resistance. As the body becomes resistant to insulin, blood sugar levels rise, leading to diabetes. Risk factors for type 2 diabetes include being overweight or obese, having a family history of diabetes, having high blood pressure, and not getting enough physical activity.

Both type 1 and type 2 diabetes require regular check-ups, maintaining a healthy lifestyle and adhering to medication schedule are important in preventing or delaying the onset of

Gestational diabetes

Gestational diabetes is a type of diabetes that develops during pregnancy. It occurs when the body cannot produce enough insulin to meet the increased needs of the pregnancy, leading to high blood sugar levels.

During pregnancy, the placenta produces hormones that can make the mother's cells more resistant to insulin, which can make it harder for the body to use insulin effectively. This can lead to an accumulation of glucose in the blood, a condition known as gestational diabetes.

Gestational diabetes can occur in any pregnancy, but certain women are at a higher risk, including women who are overweight or obese, have a family history of diabetes, have had gestational diabetes in a previous pregnancy, or are over the age of twenty-five.

Symptoms of gestational diabetes are similar to those of other types of diabetes and may include increased thirst, frequent urination, blurred vision, and fatigue.

Gestational diabetes is typically managed with a combination of lifestyle changes, such as maintaining a healthy diet and getting regular physical activity, and medication, such as insulin.

Regular check-ups and glucose monitoring are important to detect and manage gestational diabetes. It's also important to closely monitor the baby's growth and well-being to ensure that any potential risks are detected early on.

It's important to consult a healthcare professional throughout the pregnancy to properly diagnose and treat gestational diabetes to ensure the health of both the mother and the baby.

Diabetic neuropathy

Diabetic neuropathy is a type of nerve damage that can occur as a complication of diabetes. It is caused by high blood sugar levels damaging the small blood vessels that supply oxygen and nutrients to the nerves. This can lead to damage or dysfunction of the nerves in various parts of the body.

There are several types of diabetic neuropathy, each affecting different parts of the body. The most common types include:

  1. Peripheral neuropathy: This type of diabetic neuropathy affects the nerves in the feet and legs, causing symptoms such as tingling, burning, pain, and numbness.
  2. Autonomic neuropathy: This type of diabetic neuropathy affects the nerves that control involuntary functions of the body, such as heart rate, blood pressure, digestion, and bladder function. Symptoms can include problems with digestion, constipation, diarrhea, and bladder problems.
  3. Proximal neuropathy: This type of diabetic neuropathy affects the nerves in the thighs, hips, and buttocks, causing symptoms such as pain, weakness, and difficulty standing or walking.
  4. Focal neuropathy: This type of diabetic neuropathy affects specific nerves, such as the nerves of the eye, causing symptoms such as double vision, pain, and weakness.

Treatment for diabetic neuropathy typically involves managing blood sugar levels, taking pain relievers, and undergoing physical therapy.

It is important to work closely with a healthcare team to manage diabetes and prevent or delay the onset of diabetic neuropathy. Regular check-ups, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and adhering to medication schedule are important in preventing or delaying the onset of diabetic neuropathy.

Diabetes diet

Eating a well-balanced diet can help keep blood sugar levels in check, prevent or delay the onset of diabetes-related complications, and promote overall health.

Here are some general guidelines for a diabetes-friendly diet:

  1. Emphasize non-starchy vegetables: These include leafy greens, broccoli, cauliflower, peppers, and eggplant. They are low in calories and carbohydrates, and high in fiber and nutrients.
  2. Include moderate amounts of healthy carbohydrates: These include whole grains, fruits, and legumes. They are high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals and can help regulate blood sugar levels.
  3. Choose lean protein sources: These include fish, chicken, turkey, and plant-based protein sources such as beans and lentils. They are low in fat and high in nutrients, making them a healthy choice for diabetes management.
  4. Limit added sugars and saturated fats: These can contribute to weight gain, high blood pressure, and heart disease, all of which are risk factors for diabetes.
  5. Drink water and limit sugary drinks: Water is the best choice for hydration, and it can help control blood sugar levels. Avoid sugary drinks and juice, as they can cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels.
  6. Watch portion sizes: Eating smaller, more frequent meals can help prevent blood sugar spikes.

It's important to work with a dietitian or nutritionist to create a personalized meal plan that takes into account your individual needs, preferences and goals. A healthy diet along with regular physical activity and maintaining a healthy weight are important in managing diabetes and preventing or delaying the onset of diabetes-related complications.

Diabetes supplements

Supplements can be a useful addition to a diabetes management plan, but it is important to consult a healthcare professional before taking any supplements. Some supplements may interact with medications, have side effects or have limited research on their effectiveness.

Here are a few supplements that may be beneficial for people with diabetes:

  1. Alpha-lipoic acid: An antioxidant that may improve insulin sensitivity, lower blood sugar levels, and improve nerve function in people with diabetes.
  2. Chromium: A mineral that may help improve insulin sensitivity and blood sugar control.
  3. Magnesium: A mineral that may help improve insulin sensitivity .
  4. Vitamin D: A vitamin that may help improve insulin sensitivity and lower the risk of type 2 diabetes.
  5. Omega-3 fatty acids: They may help lower triglycerides, a type of fat in the blood, and reduce the risk of heart disease in people with diabetes.

It's important to note that supplements should not replace a healthy diet, regular physical activity and maintaining a healthy weight which are important in managing diabetes and preventing or delaying the onset of diabetes-related complications.

It's important to consult a healthcare professional before taking any supplement to determine the proper dosage, best time to take it and to check if the supplement is safe for you to take and if there is any interaction with the other medication you may be taking.

Diabetes Holistic Treatment

Holistic treatment for diabetes involves addressing not only the physical aspects of the disease but also the emotional, mental, and spiritual aspects. Holistic approaches aim to treat the person as a whole, rather than just treating the symptoms of diabetes.

Here are a few examples of holistic treatments for diabetes:

  1. Yoga and meditation: These practices can help reduce stress, improve insulin sensitivity, and blood sugar control, and promote overall well-being.
  2. Acupuncture: This traditional Chinese medicine technique involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body to help balance the body's energy and improve insulin sensitivity.
  3. Herbs and supplements: Some herbs and supplements, such as bitter melon, cinnamon, and fenugreek, have been traditionally used to manage diabetes. However, it's important to consult a healthcare professional before taking any supplements or herbs.
  4. Diet and Nutrition: Eating a healthy diet, rich in nutrient-dense foods and limiting processed and refined foods, can help manage diabetes and prevent or delay the onset of diabetes-related complications.
  5. Lifestyle changes: Regular physical activity and maintaining a healthy weight are important in managing diabetes and preventing or delaying the onset of diabetes-related complications.

It's important to note that holistic treatment should be used in conjunction with conventional medical treatment for diabetes, and it's important to consult a healthcare professional before trying any alternative therapies. A holistic approach can support the conventional treatment and can help in achieving better management of diabetes, and in achieving better overall health.


Begin Your Journey to Wellness with Patients Medical

Our job at Patients Medical is to listen, to connect the dots between a patient's medical history, symptoms, and their underlying causes. Patients Medical is a superb place for women and men to secure integrative and holistic health care from providers who give personalized care, partner with the patient to focus on the root cause of their illness, support their recovery, and help them maintain good health.

To make an appointment with one of our physicians, please call us at 1-212-794-8800. We look forward to hearing from you.

 

Make an Appointment