As Diabetes Surges, So Does Focus on Healthier Habits
American Diabetes Month in November puts the spotlight on a chronic health condition that affects more than 38 million individuals across the U.S., with another 96 million considered “prediabetic.” Diabetes has reached epidemic levels in America – driven by factors such as obesity, poor nutrition, genetics, and physically inactive lifestyles. Diabetes now accounts for one in every four healthcare dollars spent nationwide.
At Watertown Regional Medical Center, we witness firsthand the impact of diabetes on lives. Our primary care providers monitor and guide patients toward healthier habits and consult with specialists to develop customized treatment plans. And when patients come to us in urgent need – due to dangerously high or low blood sugar – our emergency teams are ready to stabilize and support them.
Understanding Diabetes
Diabetes is a condition that affects how the body processes blood sugar (glucose). If left unmanaged, high blood sugar levels can lead to serious complications such as heart disease, kidney failure, nerve damage, and vision loss. There are two main types of diabetes:
- Type 1 Diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the body produces little or no insulin. It’s typically diagnosed in children and young adults and requires daily insulin therapy. While it cannot be prevented, it can be managed effectively with proper care.
- Type 2 Diabetes is far more common and occurs when the body doesn’t use insulin properly. It often develops over time and is closely linked to lifestyle factors such as poor diet, lack of physical activity, and being overweight. Encouragingly, type 2 diabetes can often be prevented or delayed through healthy habits.
Common Symptoms of Type 2 Diabetes
With Type 2 Diabetes, early detection is important to mitigate the condition and prevent it from causing serious complications. Some of the tip-offs that you or a loved one may have this type of diabetes are:
- Blurry vision
- Excessive thirst
- Fatigue or weakness
- Frequent urination
- Ketones in urine
- Mood changes
- Slow-healing sores
- Unexplained weight loss
Lowering Your Risk of Type 2 Diabetes
To lower your risk of diabetes, focus on a healthy lifestyle by eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and losing excess weight. Additionally, avoid smoking, limit alcohol, and get regular check-ups to monitor your health.
If you’re experiencing any of the above symptoms or want to assess your risk, take our free Diabetes Health Risk Assessment at WatertownRegional.com/health-risk-assessment/diabetes-health. It’s quick, easy, and could be the first step toward better health.
American Diabetes Month is a fitting reminder to schedule regular wellness visits, which can also help prevent Type 2 Diabetes. If you don’t have a primary care provider, find one today at WatertownRegional.com/services/primary-care.
Your health is worth it – and your future depends on it.