Understanding Diabetes

What is diabetes?

Diabetes is a disease in which the body doesn’t make enough insulin or doesn’t know how to use the insulin it does make. Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that helps the body absorb and process sugar. Without it, blood sugar rises, which can cause serious health problems.

What are the different types of diabetes?

There are two main types of diabetes: type 1 and type 2. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease in which the body’s immune system attacks the pancreas, causing it to stop making insulin. This type is commonly diagnosed in childhood, though it can occur in adulthood as well. Most common of the types, type 2 diabetes is when the body slowly stops responding to insulin or making enough. While genetics plays an important role, it often occurs in people who have had a long history of a high carbohydrate diet.

How is diabetes treated?

Both types of diabetes can be treated with insulin, although type 2 diabetes is often treated with an oral medication first. Most people with type 1 diabetes will be cared for by an endocrinologist, or a doctor who specializes in treating hormone-related diseases. While someone with type 2 diabetes can also see an endocrinologist, many are managed by their primary care provider, who can prescribe the necessary medication, order routine blood work and help manage complications from the disease.

How can you prevent diabetes?

Unfortunately, there is no way to prevent type 1 diabetes. However, a healthy diet and regular exercise can lower your risk of developing type 2 diabetes. This includes cutting down on a high carbohydrate diet and losing weight if you are overweight or obese. Visiting your primary care provider regularly also plays a vital role in prevention as they can identify your risk factors and determine if screening for diabetes is right for you. If screening identifies a condition called prediabetes, where blood sugar is elevated, don’t worry. Through early intervention and by making positive lifestyle changes, you can help prevent diabetes from developing and improve your overall health and wellness.

Alissa Ballard, DO, is a family medicine physician with BJC Medical Group at O’Fallon. You can schedule an appointment with Dr. Ballard by calling 636.928.WELL