November is American Diabetes Month, a time to raise awareness of diabetes and the importance of prevention, early detection, and ongoing management. Diabetes affects millions of Americans and can significantly impact a person’s health. With the right treatment and support, people with diabetes can continue to live active, healthy lives.
“Diabetes is a condition that requires ongoing attention, but it is something we can manage,” said Dr. Myles Zephier, a Family Medicine physician at Pipestone County Medical Center. “The goal is not just to treat a blood sugar number. It’s to help each patient understand their condition, reduce their risk of complications, and find a plan that fits their life.”
What is diabetes?
Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how the body converts food into energy. Normally, the body produces insulin, a hormone that helps glucose (blood sugar) move from the bloodstream into cells, where it can be used for energy. With diabetes, the body either does not produce enough insulin or does not use it effectively, causing blood sugar levels to rise too high.
There are several types of diabetes, including:
Type 1 diabetes: An autoimmune condition in which the body’s immune system attacks the insulin-producing cells. People with type 1 diabetes need insulin to survive.
Type 2 diabetes: The most common form of diabetes. It occurs when the body does not use insulin effectively and, over time, may not produce enough insulin.
Gestational diabetes: Diabetes that develops during pregnancy. It generally resolves after pregnancy, but it can increase a person’s future risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
“Type 2 diabetes is especially important to recognize because it can develop gradually, and some people may not realize they have it,” Dr. Zephier said. “Routine health visits and blood work can help identify problems before they become serious.”
Know the symptoms
Diabetes does not always cause noticeable symptoms, especially in its early stages. When symptoms do occur, they may include:
Frequent urination
Increased thirst or hunger
Unexplained weight loss
Fatigue
Blurred vision
Slow-healing cuts or sores
Frequent infections
Tingling or numbness in the hands or feet
Because some people may have few or no symptoms, regular health screenings are important, especially for those with risk factors for diabetes.
“If you are experiencing symptoms that concern you, don’t wait for them to worsen,” Dr. Zephier said. “A conversation with your health care provider and some basic testing may be all it takes to identify a problem and determine the next steps.”
How is diabetes treated?
Diabetes treatment is individualized. Depending on the type of diabetes and a person’s overall health, treatment may include healthy eating, regular physical activity, blood sugar monitoring, medications, or insulin. Some people may also use technology, such as continuous glucose monitors, to help track their blood sugar.
For people with type 2 diabetes, lifestyle changes can be an important part of treatment. Eating nutritious foods, staying physically active, maintaining a healthy weight when appropriate, and taking medications as prescribed can help manage blood sugar and reduce the risk of complications.
“There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to diabetes care,” Dr. Zephier said. “We look at the whole person and work with patients to develop a treatment plan tailored to their needs, health goals and day-to-day life.”
Regular follow-up is also important. Over time, diabetes can affect the heart, kidneys, eyes, nerves, and other parts of the body. Routine appointments and recommended screenings can help identify potential complications early.
Diabetes care close to home
Managing diabetes is a long-term process, and having a health care team you can turn to makes a difference. At Pipestone County Medical Center, our health care providers care for patients with diabetes and can help with diagnosis, treatment, monitoring, and ongoing management.
“Living with diabetes doesn’t mean you have to manage it alone,” Dr. Zephier said. “Your health care team is here to answer questions, monitor your progress, and make adjustments as needed. The earlier we identify concerns, the more opportunities we have to help.”
If you have symptoms of diabetes, are concerned about your risk, or simply haven’t had a routine checkup in a while, talk with a Pipestone County Medical Center health care provider.
To make an appointment, call 507-825-5811.
You can also connect with your health care provider via Avera MyChart at pipestonehealth.org/mychart-login.
Taking care of your health starts with knowing where you stand. This American Diabetes Month, make time to talk with your health care provider about diabetes and your overall health.