The incidence of diabetes is rising at an alarming pace, impacting not just adults but also children, complicating their lives in ways that can be overwhelming.

Developing diabetes is a scenario you want to avoid, as it typically necessitates ongoing monitoring and management and can pose serious health risks. November is designated as American Diabetes Awareness Month, a time dedicated to increasing awareness about this condition. At AFC Urgent Care New Bedford, we encourage everyone to get their blood sugar levels checked before the holiday season. We’ve also put together a guideline to help you gain a better understanding of diabetes.

The Seriousness of Diabetes

Diabetes is a chronic condition that disrupts how your body converts food into energy. When you eat, most of the food breaks down into sugar (glucose) that enters your bloodstream. As your blood sugar rises, your pancreas releases insulin, which acts like a key to help the sugar enter your body’s cells for energy.

In cases of diabetes, your body either doesn’t produce enough insulin or cannot use it effectively. This results in excess blood sugar, which can lead to severe health complications, including heart disease, vision impairment, and kidney damage. While there’s currently no cure for diabetes, adopting a healthy lifestyle can significantly improve the quality of life for those living with the condition.

Types of Diabetes

Diabetes is classified into several types: Type 1, Type 2, and Gestational diabetes.

• Type 1 Diabetes: This form occurs when the pancreas fails to produce insulin or produces it in minimal amounts. Without sufficient insulin, sugar accumulates in the bloodstream, leading to elevated blood sugar levels.
• Type 2 Diabetes: This is more common and typically arises when the body’s cells become resistant to insulin. Initially, the pancreas compensates by producing extra insulin, but over time, it can’t keep pace, resulting in high blood sugar levels, prediabetes, or Type 2 diabetes.
• Gestational Diabetes: This type develops during pregnancy in women who did not have diabetes before. It often relates to difficulties in insulin production during pregnancy.

Recognizing Diabetes Symptoms

It’s crucial to recognize the warning signs of diabetes, which may include:

• Frequent urination
• Excessive thirst
• Unexplained weight loss
• Constant hunger
• Blurred vision
• Numbness or tingling in hands or feet
• Persistent fatigue
• Very dry skin
• Slow-healing sores
• Increased risk of infections

Managing Diabetes

Effectively managing diabetes involves several strategies tailored to each type:

For Type 1 Diabetes:

• Educate yourself about your condition and its management.
• Practice stress management techniques, as stress can affect blood sugar levels.
• Keep a food diary to track how your diet impacts your blood sugar.
• Prioritize overall health by getting adequate sleep, exercising regularly, and avoiding smoking.
• Schedule regular check-ups with your doctor and maintain good oral hygiene.
• Connect with diabetes support communities for knowledge and emotional backing.

For Type 2 Diabetes:

• Embrace a healthy diet rich in low-carb, high-protein foods, along with plenty of vegetables, fiber, and healthy fats.
• Steer clear of sugary and fatty foods.
• If overweight, aim to lose 5-7% of your body weight, which can lower blood sugar levels by up to 25%.
• Engage in at least 150 minutes of physical activity each week to enhance overall health and manage blood sugar levels.

Checking Blood Sugar at AFC Urgent Care New Bedford

Managing diabetes is feasible with the right approach, but neglecting it can lead to severe health complications or even death. Staying disciplined and proactive is essential. AFC Urgent Care New Bedford is open seven days a week, and no appointment is needed—just walk in for a blood sugar test with our convenient payment system. Your health is important, so take the necessary steps to effectively manage your diabetes. We accept most insurances and offer an easy-to-use online payment system, allowing you to check out in just a few clicks. Stop by anytime, and we’ll take care of your health needs!