Diabetes
-
- Tweet
Sydney Crackower, M.D.
Family Practice located in Lafayette, LA
Nearly 15% of adults in Louisiana have diabetes. If left uncontrolled, diabetes can lead to other health issues such as kidney disease or peripheral neuropathy. Sydney Crackower, MD in Lafayette, Louisiana, is a family medicine physician who specializes in the treatment and management of diabetes. For help with your diabetes, call the office or book an appointment online.
Diabetes Q & A
What is diabetes?
Diabetes is a chronic health condition characterized by elevated blood sugar. The sugar in your blood comes from the food you eat and is your body’s preferred source of fuel. Under normal circumstances, when sugar is in your blood your pancreas releases insulin, which is a hormone that helps carry the sugar from your blood into your cells.
If you have diabetes, it’s usually due to an issue with your insulin.
There are three primary types of diabetes:
- Type 1 diabetes: often develops in children or teens
- Type 2 diabetes: most often seen in adults
- Gestational diabetes: diabetes during pregnancy that resolves after delivery
People with Type 1 diabetes don’t make enough insulin, while people with Type 2 and gestational diabetes can’t properly use the insulin they do make.
Type 2 diabetes is the most common type of diabetes.
What are the symptoms of diabetes?
Symptoms of diabetes vary in severity depending on the type of diabetes you have. For people with Type 1 diabetes, the symptoms usually come on quickly and can be severe, while people with Type 2 diabetes may not even notice the symptoms or relate them to a medical condition.
Common symptoms of diabetes include:
- Unintentional weight loss
- Extreme hunger and thirst
- Frequent urination, especially at night
- Fatigue or irritability
- Tingling in the hands or feet
- Blurry vision
- Wounds that are slow to heal
Dr. Crackower recommends you come in every year for your annual physical so he can monitor your blood sugars and your risk of diabetes. If caught early, you may be able to prevent diabetes.
How can I manage my diabetes?
Dr. Crackower works one-on-one with you to develop a treatment plan to help you manage your diabetes and keep your blood sugars under control. Your treatment plan may include:
- Healthy diet plan
- Exercise routine
- Medication
If you’re overweight or obese, losing weight may be all that’s needed to help get your blood sugar in an acceptable range. Dr. Crackower offers a medical weight-loss plan that may help you reach your weight goals quickly and safely.
For expert medical care from a team that cares about you and your health, call Dr. Crackower’s office or schedule an appointment using the online booking tool.
