Diabetes is a manageable illness. However, to manage your diabetes and gain better control over your blood sugar, you have to be active in your care. As a physician committed to your health and wellness, Dr. Arthur Pinkhasov at Genuine Care Physician PC in Forest Hills, New York, helps you take control of your health and your diabetes by providing the tools you need to succeed. If you’re struggling with your diabetes, call the office at (516) 262-3612 or book an appointment online.
What is diabetes?
Diabetes is a medical condition characterized by high blood sugar levels. When you eat, your body turns that food into energy or glucose. The glucose travels through your bloodstream, and insulin, a hormone, carries the sugar into your cells to provide energy.
People with diabetes either don’t make enough insulin or can’t correctly use the insulin they make, leaving the glucose trapped in the blood. Excess blood sugar damages your blood vessels and leads to health problems.
What are the types of diabetes?
The types of diabetes include:
- Type 1 diabetes: The body doesn’t produce insulin
- Type 2 diabetes: The body can’t properly use the insulin
- Gestational diabetes: Occurs during pregnancy
Type 2 diabetes is the most common type and develops mostly in adults. Inactivity and carrying excess weight increase your risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.
Type 1 diabetes, also referred to as juvenile diabetes, is more commonly diagnosed during childhood and occurs when the immune system attacks the pancreas, damaging the cells that produce insulin.
What are the symptoms of diabetes?
Symptoms of diabetes include:
- Unexplained weight loss
- Ravenous appetite
- Increase in urination
- Excessive thirst
- Tingling in the hands or feet
- Fatigue
- Blurry vision
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, call the office for an appointment to have your blood sugar level checked. Getting diagnosed early may prevent future health problems.
How is diabetes managed?
As a physician focused on wellness, Dr. Pinkhasov uses a combination of diet, exercise, and medication to help you keep your blood sugar under control.
Dr. Pinkhasov received additional training in nutrition and offers nutritional counseling at his office to help you understand how diet affects blood sugar. He works with you to develop a diet plan that fits both your health and lifestyle.
Exercise helps your body burn off excess sugar and use insulin more efficiently. Depending on your fitness level, Dr. Pinkhasov may prescribe regular activity to help you keep blood sugar within normal range.
If diet and exercise alone can’t keep your blood sugar under control, Dr. Pinkhasov may prescribe medication. Depending on your blood sugar numbers, this may include insulin or oral medication.
Dr. Pinkhasov is now offering a Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) evaluation. A CGM device is a small, lightweight and watertight continuous glucose monitoring system that takes a glucose reading every five minutes. It will record your glucose levels and will give your healthcare provider insights into how your diet, medication, and daily activities really affect your glucose levels.
If you need help getting your blood sugar levels under control or have concerns about diabetes, call the office or book an appointment online.