Are you among the millions of people who have diabetes and don't even know it?

 

You are at greater risk for developing diabetes if you are overweight, smoke, have high blood pressure and/or high cholesterol, a family history of diabetes, if you've had gestational diabetes, are over the age of 45, are inactive, or if you are African American, Hispanic, Native American, or Asian American.

 

There are 3 main types of diabetes.

 

Type 2, also known as adult onset diabetes, is the most common type of diabetes.  In this form, the body makes insulin, but the cells cannot use it well (insulin resistance).

 

With type 1 diabetes, the body is unable to make insulin because the immune system attacks the cells that produce and release insulin.

 

Gestational diabetes occurs in some pregnant women.  Women that have this form of diabetes have a greater chance of developing type 2 diabetes later in life.

 

Common symptoms of diabetes:

• Frequent urination

• Frequent thirst

• Sleepiness

• Increased appetite

• Blurry vision

• Tingling or numbness in your feet

• Sudden weight loss

• Dry skin

• Have sores that heal slowly

• Frequent infections

 

If you are at high risk, or are experiencing any of the common symptoms, please discuss them with your provider.  He or she may run some blood tests to determine if you have impaired glucose tolerance, pre-diabetes, or diabetes.

 

If you are already diagnosed with diabetes, France Avenue Family Physicians would like you to follow up every three months to assess your condition.  At this time they may alter your medication, diet, or lifestyle to give you the best possible care.

 

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