Diabetes

Diabetes is a disease in which the blood glucose (or blood sugar levels) is higher than normal. This type of sugar is found in the foods we consume. Insulin is a hormone that is responsible for helping glucose break down into energy for our body cells to use.

The most common type of diabetes is type II diabetes. Type I diabetes is characterized by the body's inability to make insulin, having type II diabetes means that a person's body does not make it and/or use insulin well. When the body does not have enough insulin, the glucose remains in the blood. Over time, the excess glucose in the blood can damage the kidneys, nerves and the eyes. The condition can also cause heart disease, stroke and sometimes results in the need for amputation of a limb.

Many people are unaware of the extensive damage that diabetes can cause, which is part of the reason why our practice is dedicated to a comprehensive approach and provides essential support services. Our dietician, Alene Albritton, MPH, RD, LD conducts regular diabetes classes, health cooking classes, grocery store tours, and individual counseling and meal planning.

Some of the warning signs or symptoms of diabetes may include excessive thirst, weight loss, blurred vision, frequent urination and fatigue. However, some patients have no symptoms. Our office can perform a simple blood test at the time of your consultation to determine if you have diabetes.

Diabetes can be managed and to some degree and it is preventable. A healthy life style can go a long way towards prevention and the treatment of diabetes. Eating a healthy, well-rounded diet, maintaining a healthy weight and regular physical activity are just what the doctor ordered. However, oral medications or insulin may be necessary to help the body to control symptoms and prevent the damage caused by excessive sugar in the blood.

AbsoluteCare provides a comprehensive diabetes management program. If you have diabetes, suspect you may have diabetes, or you are at risk based on your family history please contact our office to schedule an appointment with Dr. Stahura and Alene. Appointments with the dietician can be scheduled in conjunction with your doctor’s visit for a nutrition assessment. Whether you are seeking treatment or advice with regards to prevention we are here to assist you.