/assets/production/practices/0eff890c45e91207520d77dea5c6525c3872cb4b/images/2726139.jpg)
Diabetes Management services offered in The Loop, Chicago, IL
Diabetes is a growing problem in the United States, with more than 30 million people already diagnosed and another 84 million considered prediabetic. At Michigan Avenue Primary Care in The Loop of downtown Chicago, Illinois, their team can manage this chronic condition and help you avoid the potentially serious complications that are associated with diabetes. For experienced diabetes care, call Michigan Avenue Primary Care or request an appointment online today.
Diabetes Management Q & A
What is diabetes?
Diabetes is a condition in which your body has trouble regulating the levels of glucose in your blood due to insufficient insulin or insulin resistance. There are two main types of diabetes, which include:
Type 1 diabetes
This form of the disease usually develops in childhood, and it occurs when your pancreas doesn’t produce enough, or any, insulin, which is the hormone responsible for regulating sugar in your blood.
Type 2 diabetes
This form of the disease is far and away from the most common today and can develop at any age. Type 2 diabetes stems from a growing insulin resistance in your body, leaving your pancreas unable to produce enough to overcome the resistance.
There are other types of diabetes, such as gestational diabetes, but Types 1 and 2 are the most prevalent.
What causes diabetes?
Researchers have linked Type 2 diabetes to:
- Weight problems and obesity
- Lack of exercise
- Poor nutritional habits
- Family history
This list is by no means comprehensive, but it gives you an idea of some of the more common contributing factors.
What are the potential complications of diabetes?
The complications that develop from diabetes can be very serious and include:
- Heart disease
- Stroke
- Peripheral neuropathy
- Vision loss
- Kidney disease
These complications are incredibly serious and even life-threatening, which is why you need effective diabetes management services at Michigan Avenue Primary Care.
How is diabetes managed?
If your Michigan Avenue Primary Care provider diagnoses you with diabetes, their first goal is to regulate the levels of glucose in your system, which they can accomplish with insulin.
But it’s the work you do through lifestyle changes that can make the most difference. Depending upon your unique situation, your provider tailors a treatment plan that includes the following:
- Losing weight
- More exercise
- Quitting certain habits, such as smoking or alcohol use
These steps — especially diet and exercise — can prevent the complications associated with diabetes, so they’re terribly important for your long-term health. With some effort on your part, as well as treatments from the Michigan Avenue Primary Care team, you can lead an active life long into the future.
For experienced and comprehensive diabetes care, call Michigan Avenue Primary Care or request an appointment online today.
Featured Services