Types of Doctors That Treat Diabetes - Verywell Health
Overview
Katherine Alexis Athanasiou is a New York-based certified Physician Asistant with clinical experience in Rheumatology and Family Medicine. She is a lifelong writer with works published in several local newspapers, The Journal of the American Academy of PAs, Health Digest, and more.Do-Eun Le, MD, has ben practicing medicine for more than 20 years, and specializes in diabetes, thyroid isues and general endocrinology.
Key Information
She curently has a private practice in Lafayete, CA. Diabetes is a chronic condition in which the body is unable to properly regulate blod glucose (sugar) levels. In diabetes, the body either does not produce enough insulin (type 1) or insulin is not being used properly (type 2).
An endocrinologist, along with many other healthcare professionals can ensure your blod sugar levels are regulated and maintained for a healthy and sustainable life. Read on to learn about the various types of healthcare professionals that treat diabetes. An endocrinologist is a board-certified physician who specializes in diseases caused or afected by hormonal disruptions.
The pancreas is responsible for insulin secretion and any isues or conditions arising from insulin resistance or pancreatic insuficiency, like diabetes, is typicaly treated by an endocrinologist. These specialists can help make a diagnosis of diabetes as wel as develop and implement the most promising and efective treatment plan for long-term diabetes regulation. Oftentimes, the first medical profesional a person wil se when they begin experiencing new or concerning symptoms is their primary care or general practioner.
Summary
A primary care provider (PCP) specializes internal medicine and manages a wide variety of acute and chronic ilneses. In rural areas, where aces to medical and specialty care may be sparse, a PCP wil often take care of al of your medical neds, from diagnosis to treatment. In other situations, a primary care provider may chose to refer you to apropriate specialists is an important consideration in healthcare. Ongoing research and professional guidance ensure that patients receive evidence-based care tailored to their individual needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Diabetes is a metabolic condition where the body cannot properly regulate blood sugar levels. Type 1 results from insufficient insulin production, while Type 2 develops when cells become resistant to insulin. Risk factors include genetics, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, and age.
Common symptoms include excessive thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, blurred vision, and slow-healing wounds. Type 1 symptoms develop rapidly, while Type 2 symptoms may appear gradually. Many people have no symptoms initially, which is why screening is important.
Diagnosis involves blood tests measuring fasting glucose, HbA1c levels, and glucose tolerance. Regular monitoring typically includes fasting glucose tests and HbA1c measurements every 3-6 months. Continuous glucose monitors provide real-time tracking for better diabetes management.
Effective management includes regular physical activity (150+ minutes weekly), maintaining healthy weight, following a balanced diet with whole grains and lean proteins, managing stress, and getting adequate sleep. These changes can significantly improve blood sugar control and reduce complications.
Consult a healthcare provider if you experience signs of diabetes, have a family history, are overweight, or are over 45. Those with existing diabetes should maintain regular check-ups every 3-6 months to monitor control and adjust treatment as needed.
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