The Diabetes Association reports that 29 million people have diabetes and 86 million have pre-diabetes. That’s a significant number of people! The good news is that doctors play a vital role in the treatment of diabetics and those at risk of developing the disease. Consider the following if you’re unsure whether your specialist should be involved in managing your condition.
Physicians Treat Diabetes In Several Different Ways
A physician can help with diabetes in several different ways. The Dr John Manzella may advise you on diet and exercise, or refer you to other specialists for help. They may also prescribe medication that is used to treat diabetes or its complications, such as high blood pressure or heart disease.
In some cases, a doctor may provide mental health therapy for patients who have experienced trauma from their diagnosis of the condition such as feeling depressed or anxious. Nutrition counseling is another service that some physicians offer to those who suffer from this disease–this can involve helping them make smart choices about what they eat so as not to exacerbate their condition further
Most Diabetes Treatments Involve Training Patients To Eat Well And Exercise
Lifestyle modification is the most prevalent form of diabetes treatment. Patients are instructed to make healthier dietary and physical activity choices as part of this treatment. According to Dr John Manzella, patients are instructed on how to ingest a healthy diet consisting of all three macronutrients – carbohydrates, lipids, and proteins. In addition, they are given instructions regarding the quantity and frequency of daily physical activity.
If making lifestyle adjustments alone are not sufficient to bring blood sugar levels under control, patients with type 2 diabetes may be given pharmaceuticals such as metformin as treatment options.
Doctors Can Send Patients To Nutritionists, Mental Health Therapists, And Trainers
A physician can also refer patients to other specialists who provide intervention services such as nutrition counseling, mental health therapy, and exercise training. For example, a patient may need to see an ophthalmologist or podiatrist if they have diabetic retinopathy or neuropathy (or nerve damage. A psychiatrist may be needed if you are depressed because of your condition.
