Learn More about Diabetes
Diabetes has become such a danger to public health that the World Health Organization established “World Diabetes Day” on November 14, 2006. Every year since, doctors everywhere have used this mid-November day to educate their patients about diabetes.
What is diabetes?
Understanding diabetes begins with understanding insulin. Insulin is a hormone, made by the pancreas, that regulates the amount of glucose (sugar) in your blood. After you eat carbohydrates, insulin breaks them down into sugars for your body to use as energy. Sometimes, the amount of insulin your body produces can’t keep up with the number of carbohydrates it needs to process. As a result, blood sugar levels can become abnormally high.
What should you know about diabetes?
- There are three types. Type 1, an autoimmune disease that you can’t do anything to prevent; gestational diabetes that affects some pregnant women; and Type 2.
- Type 2 diabetes is caused by lifestyle factors and is preventable. T2D can strike people who don’t exercise, have a poor diet, or are obese. You can prevent insulin resistance and high blood sugar by maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet rich in whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, and exercising regularly.
- T2D can run in families, so if you have a family history of diabetes, ask your doctor to help you assess your risk. Your doctor may perform a simple blood test to check your blood sugar levels, making sure they stay in the normal range.
- Diabetes affects every system in your body. It’s not unusual for people with diabetes to develop problems with their eyes, kidneys, circulation, and feet.
Why does our podiatrist want to educate our patients about diabetes?
Board-certified podiatrist Kenneth R. Wilhelm, DPM wants you to be aware of the detrimental effects of diabetes on your feet. High blood sugar will eventually damage the blood vessels that lead to your feet, leaving you vulnerable to infections that don’t quickly heal. T2D can also damage the nerves in your feet, causing chronic numbness and tingling. Fairfax County residents with diabetes should have Dr. Wilhelm check their feet once a year – more often if they’re experiencing symptoms. Call Clifton Foot & Ankle Center in Centreville, Virginia at (703) 996-3000 or visit us online to make an appointment.
