Diabetes is a serious health issue affecting countless Americans yearly. During American Diabetes Month, AFC Urgent Care Danbury emphasizes the need for regular blood sugar testing and diabetes prevention. You don't want to be another statistic! Diabetes is on the rise.

That being said, AFC Urgent Care Danbury West has created a guide to help you understand what diabetes is and how to manage it. 

Understanding Different Types of Diabetes

Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes are frequently mixed up, but they are different in many ways:

• Type 1 Diabetes: In this autoimmune condition, the body doesn't produce insulin. It occurs primarily in younger individuals and is not preventable. Type 1 diabetics must daily inject insulin to manage the condition.
• Type 2 Diabetes: More common, it typically develops later in life. The body produces insulin but doesn't use it effectively. Many cases can be managed with lifestyle changes like a healthy diet and exercise.
• Gestational Diabetes: Occurring during pregnancy, it can be concerning for both mother and child. Pregnant women experience hormonal changes and weight gain, potentially leading to gestational diabetes. Some may even develop Type 2 diabetes post-pregnancy.

Prediabetes: The Initial Warning Sign

Counting prediabetes as a fourth type reveals the most common form in the U.S. In 2019, the CDC reported 96 million prediabetes cases, marking an increase from previous years. Avoid becoming another statistic!

Early Signs and Risk Factors for Diabetes

Many people diagnosed with diabetes wish they had acted on early warning signs. Unfortunately, millions in the U.S. remain prediabetic or undiagnosed because they avoid medical visits.

Look out for these risk factors for diabetes:

• Being overweight (including childhood obesity)
• Family history of diabetes
• Lack of exercise
• History of high blood pressure or taking blood pressure medication
• Low HDL cholesterol and/or high triglycerides
• Previous diabetes during pregnancy (Gestational Diabetes)
• Diagnosis with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Symptoms of early onset diabetes:

• Increased thirst and urination
• Fatigue
• Blurred vision
• Unexpected weight loss
• Increased hunger
• Slow-healing sores and frequent infections
• Red, swollen gums
• Tingling or numbness in hands or feet

If you're experiencing these symptoms, it's time to see a doctor for evaluation and preventive measures.

How to Test for Diabetes

Begin by obtaining blood work to check for diabetes. An A1C test gauges your blood sugar levels and guides prevention discussions with your doctor. Lifestyle changes, exercise, and dietary adjustments may be necessary, depending on your levels.

For those already living with diabetes, know that management tools exist to support your physical and mental well-being.

AFC Urgent Care Danbury Offers A1C Tests and Diabetes Screening

Concerned about high blood sugar levels? AFC Urgent Care Danbury is here for you. Offering routine check-ups seven days a week, you can walk in or make an appointment online at any of their three Danbury locations:

• 100 Mill Plain Rd.
• 2 Main St.
• 76c Newtown Rd.

They can assist in checking your blood sugar levels and provide guidance to better manage diabetes or prevent its onset.

Don’t forget to visit our online payment tab. It’s easy to use and you’ll be able to pay your bill in just a few clicks.