As November rolls in, we say goodbye to the fall season and prepare for the cooler weather and upcoming holidays filled with tempting treats and festive foods. But November is also notable for another reason—it's American Diabetes Awareness Month, a crucial time to learn more about diabetes, a chronic condition that affects millions across the United States.

At AFC Urgent Care West Springfield, we're here to provide helpful information about diabetes—what it is, how to manage it, and ways to monitor your blood sugar levels effectively.

What is Diabetes?

According to the CDC, diabetes is a long-term condition that impacts how your body transforms food into energy. Most of the food you consume is broken down into sugar (glucose), which then enters your bloodstream. When your blood sugar levels rise, your pancreas releases insulin, which helps move the sugar into your cells to be used as energy.

In people with diabetes, the body either doesn’t produce enough insulin or can't use it efficiently, causing sugar to build up in the bloodstream. This excess sugar can eventually lead to serious health problems such as heart disease, vision loss, and kidney damage. Although there is no cure, leading a healthy lifestyle can significantly help those living with diabetes.

The Different Types of Diabetes

There are three primary forms of diabetes: Type 1, Type 2, and Gestational Diabetes.

• Type 1 Diabetes: In this form, the pancreas produces little to no insulin, which is crucial for moving sugar from the bloodstream into the cells. Without sufficient insulin, sugar builds up in the bloodstream.
• Type 2 Diabetes: In this type, the body’s cells do not respond well to insulin, a condition called insulin resistance. The pancreas tries to compensate by producing more insulin, but eventually, it can't keep up, causing blood sugar levels to rise, often leading to prediabetes and Type 2 diabetes.
• Gestational Diabetes: This form can develop during pregnancy in women who did not previously have diabetes. It occurs when the body cannot produce enough insulin to meet the increased demands of pregnancy.

Recognizing Diabetes Symptoms

It’s essential to be aware of diabetes symptoms and get your blood sugar levels checked if you experience any of the following signs. At AFC Urgent Care West Springfield, we offer convenient, walk-in blood work services available seven days a week—no appointment necessary.

Common symptoms of diabetes include:

• Frequent urination, especially at night
• Increased thirst
• Unexplained weight loss
• Excessive hunger
• Blurred vision
• Numbness or tingling in hands or feet
• Persistent fatigue
• Dry skin
• Slow-healing sores
• Frequent infections

Managing Diabetes: Tips for Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes

Managing diabetes requires consistent effort, but with the right strategies, it’s possible to live a healthy life. Here are some tips for managing both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes:

For Type 1 Diabetes:

• Stay informed about your condition and how to manage it.
• Learn how to control stress, as it can impact blood sugar levels.
• Keep a food journal to track how different foods affect your blood sugar.
• Maintain a healthy lifestyle with proper sleep, regular exercise, and no smoking.
• Schedule regular visits with your healthcare provider.
• Take care of your oral health, as dental care is important for managing diabetes.
• Stay connected with a support group or community for encouragement.

For Type 2 Diabetes:

• Focus on eating a balanced diet rich in low-carb, high-protein foods, as well as plenty of vegetables, fiber, and healthy fats like those found in nuts and avocados.
• Avoid foods high in sugar and unhealthy fats.
• If overweight, losing 5-7% of your body weight can greatly reduce blood sugar levels.
• Get at least 150 minutes of exercise each week to improve your overall health and help manage your diabetes.

Check Your Blood Sugar at AFC Urgent Care West Springfield

If you need to monitor your blood sugar levels, AFC Urgent Care West Springfield is here to help. Diabetes can be managed effectively with the right approach, but it’s important to stay proactive to avoid complications.

Stop by AFC Urgent Care West Springfield for routine blood work any day of the week. With no appointment needed, you can easily walk in and get your blood sugar checked. Our convenient payment system also makes handling your visit quick and simple. Don’t forget, we accept most insurances!