November is American Diabetes Month, serving as a timely reminder to take proactive steps in managing and preventing diabetes. While diabetes awareness should be a year-round endeavor, this month, just before the holiday season, offers a great opportunity to reaffirm your commitment to a healthier lifestyle. Over 30 million Americans live with diabetes, and another 96 million have prediabetes—a condition where blood sugar levels are elevated but not yet high enough to be classified as diabetes.

Alarmingly, 80% of individuals with prediabetes are unaware of their condition. Whether you or someone you know is affected by diabetes, understanding the risk factors and learning how to prevent or manage this condition is essential. AFC Urgent Care Southington has developed a guide to keep you informed during American Diabetes Month.

Understanding the Different Types of Diabetes

There are two main types of diabetes that deserve attention:

Type 1 Diabetes: This autoimmune disorder occurs when the immune system attacks the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. Type 1 diabetes typically emerges during childhood, adolescence, or early adulthood. It is not linked to lifestyle factors and does not become more prevalent with age.

Type 2 Diabetes: This condition arises when the body either fails to produce enough insulin or does not use it effectively. Both scenarios can lead to elevated blood sugar levels, which can result in serious health complications, including heart disease, stroke, and vision loss.

Additionally, gestational diabetes develops during pregnancy. While it is less common than Type 2 diabetes, it can lead to future diabetes risk for both the mother and the child if not properly managed.

Type 2 diabetes can often be managed through dietary changes and regular exercise, while Type 1 diabetes typically requires medication to control symptoms. If you suspect you may have diabetes, it's crucial to consult your doctor promptly for timely treatment.

The Rise of Prediabetes

Prediabetes is a state in which your blood sugar levels are elevated but not yet at the threshold for diabetes. This condition increases your risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, necessitating dietary and lifestyle modifications to prevent progression.

Signs and symptoms of prediabetes include:

• Fatigue
• Frequent urination
• Dark urine or dry skin

You can significantly reduce your risk of developing Type 2 diabetes by adopting lifestyle changes, such as maintaining a healthy diet, engaging in regular physical activity, and avoiding smoking.

Diabetes Is Preventable!

If left unmanaged, diabetes heightens the risk of severe health issues such as heart disease, stroke, kidney problems, and nerve damage. This underscores the importance of attending your doctor’s appointments regularly. Scheduling routine check-ups and A1C tests can help assess your blood sugar levels, allowing you to take necessary actions to lower them.

Controlling blood glucose levels involves making lifestyle changes, including dietary adjustments, increased exercise, and regular blood testing. Even if you have diabetes, you can effectively manage it through lifestyle modifications and a personalized diabetes management plan developed in collaboration with your doctor.

While different types of diabetes exist, they share common underlying factors. A combination of medication, healthy eating, and consistent exercise can effectively manage diabetes. Individuals with diabetes may require insulin to help control blood sugar levels, while those who are prediabetic should monitor their blood sugar and adjust their lifestyle and diet accordingly. Diabetes can be managed, and prediabetes can be prevented. Don’t wait—get screened for diabetes today.

Concerned About Your Blood Sugar Levels? Get Checked at AFC Urgent Care Southington

If you're concerned about having diabetes or prediabetes, it’s essential to undergo screenings and routine blood work. AFC Urgent Care Southington provides diabetes check-ups and A1C tests to evaluate your blood sugar levels. Our clinic is open seven days a week, and we accept both walk-ins and appointments for your convenience. We accept most insurances, and we have an easy to use online payment system that will have you checked out in just a few clicks.