Diabetes Mellitus

Diabetes affects roughly 10% of Americans — that includes adults and children. With his expertise in diabetes management, Dr. Yee can help you take control of your case of diabetes.

Diabetes Q & A

Why do I have diabetes?

Diabetes is an umbrella term that describes several conditions that affect your body’s ability to use glucose, also known as blood sugar. Glucose is the primary fuel source for the trillions of cells in your body. Cells absorb essential glucose with the help of a specialized hormone called insulin, which is secreted by your pancreas. Simplistically, diabetes is broadly categorized as type 1 or type 2. If your pancreas cannot produce any insulin, you are diagnosed as having Type 1 diabetes. In the past this has also been labeled as juvenile diabetes since it tends to develop at an early age. Alternatively, it’s possible that your body does produce insulin, but your body becomes resistant to it, or you just don’t have adequate levels of insulin. This is Type 2 diabetes. In most cases, Type 2 diabetes is linked to being overweight, although genetic factors do play a significant role. Certain populations, such as Hispanic, Asian-American, and native Americans have higher incidences of diabetes.

What are the symptoms of diabetes?

While diabetes does cause symptoms and side effects, they’re very generic and you might not even realize you have an issue. Common issues associated with diabetes and high blood sugar levels include: Blurred vision, delayed wound healing, frequent infections, unexplained weight loss, increased thirst and urination. You might also find that you have a ravenous appetite. This tends to occur because your body is trying to tell you that your cells need glucose. Even though plenty of glucose is probably circulating throughout your bloodstream, without effective insulin, your body cannot get access to it.

How is diabetes treated?

Diabetes is a chronic condition that you’re going to have to manage throughout your lifetime. With the help of Dr. Yee and the team at Yee Medicine and Pediatric Associates, you can get personalized diabetes treatment planning that’s best suited to your specific case of diabetes, as well as your lifestyle. With Type 1 diabetes and with some cases of Type 2 diabetes, you may need insulin. You can either take self-administered insulin injections throughout the day or consider the choice of technologically advanced insulin pump that delivers insulin automatically into your bloodstream. Your diabetes treatment plan from Yee Medicine and Pediatric Associates will also include: weight management counseling, dietary and nutrition management, physical activity planning, one or more medications to help with the metabolism of glucose. You will also be directly more stringent control of cholesterol and screening for eye, kidney, vascular and other diseases. Rest assured, at Yee Medicine and Pediatric Associates, you have a dedicated team on your side to get the comprehensive diabetes care you need. If you need help managing your diabetes, schedule an appointment at Yee Medicine and Pediatric Associates right away. Book an appointment over the phone with either office.