How Primary Care Tailors Diabetes Treatment Plans

Primary care plays an important role in helping patients navigate diabetes treatment. Diabetes is a complicated condition requiring a customized approach to care from a provider who understands how the condition affects the patient. A primary care provider helps those with diabetes manage their condition and live healthily.

Diabetes explained

Diabetes type 1 and type 2 are similar in name but have differences that affect a provider's approach to diabetes treatment. Both types are chronic conditions that affect how the body regulates glucose or blood sugar levels. Here is a closer look at the two:

Type 1 diabetes

Also known as juvenile diabetes or insulin-dependent diabetes, this type manifests in young people between their teenage years and young adulthood. It is thought to result from an autoimmune disorder that attacks the pancreas, destroying the body's ability to produce insulin. This hormone allows glucose to enter the cells, giving them energy to function. There is no cure for type 1, and those with type require daily insulin injections to manage blood sugar levels. Symptoms, including frequent urination, extreme fatigue, hunger and thirst, mood changes, and weight loss, tend to come on severe and quickly and be fatal if not treated promptly.

Type 2 diabetes

Symptoms for type 2 diabetes are similar but tend to come on more slowly. Type 2 diabetes tends to develop in older individuals and is not the result of an autoimmune disorder. Unlike type 1 diabetes, big risk factors for type 2 include obesity and lack of exercise. People with type 2 diabetes are insulin resistant, meaning they still produce insulin but do not use it effectively. Because of this, glucose builds up in the bloodstream. Only some patients with type 2 diabetes will require insulin. Others can be treated with lifestyle changes, medication, or a combination of diabetes treatments.

Role of the primary care provider

The primary care provider or PCP is usually the first point of contact regarding diabetes treatment. The patient comes to them when they experience symptoms, and the PCP will order a series of tests to determine the diagnosis. After the diagnosis, the PCP will continue to monitor the patient's overall health and blood sugar levels and handle referrals to specialists as needed.

Tailoring a treatment plan

No two diabetes management plans are alike, and treatment depends on multiple factors, including:

• The type of diabetes
• Need for insulin or medication
• Patient's age
• Complications experienced
• How well the condition is managed
• Co-occurring conditions
• The patient's overall health

Though every patient is different, According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), those with well-managed diabetes should have a check-up about once every 6th months. Regular appointments with a specialist, such as an endocrinologist, may be necessary, depending on the patient's circumstances. Since diet management can be such a crucial component of managing diabetes well, a patient's PCP may recommend the patient also meet with a nutritionist who focuses on working with those with diabetes.

Living healthy with diabetes

South Florida Doctors Group understands the complexity of diabetes and the unique needs of those who struggle with it. We can design a diabetes treatment plan to help you manage the condition and optimize your health. Diabetes does not have to run your life, and we can help.

Request an appointment here:https://Southfloridadoctorsgroup.com or call South Florida Doctors Group at (954) 905-2432 for an appointment in our Pembroke Pines office.

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