Barnes-Jewish West County Hospital provides diagnosis and self management programs for the treatment of type 2 diabetes.
What is Type 2 Diabetes?
Type 2 diabetes is a metabolic disorder where the body can not make enough insulin to regulate healthy blood sugar levels. This makes it hard for the body to move blood sugar into the cells and results in high or elevated blood sugar levels. The exact cause of type 2 diabetes is unknown. However, genetics have been linked to type 2 diabetes along with risk factors such as obesity and physical inactivity.
What is Prediabetes?
Type 2 diabetes is commonly preceded by prediabetes. Prediabetes is when blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not elevated enough to be considered as type 2 diabetes. Prediabetes can be prevented or delayed with moderate exercise and weight loss.
Can Type 2 Diabetes be Prevented?
Type 2 diabetes can be prevented or delayed by eliminating or reducing risk factors for the disease such as obesity or inactive lifestyle. Losing weight moderately and increasing exercise can help delay type 2 diabetes.
Symptoms of Type 2 Diabetes
The following are common symptoms associated with type 2 diabetes.
- Wounds that don't heal easily
- Unusual thirst
- Frequent urination
- Blurred vision
- Nausea/vomiting
- Extreme weakness
- Mood changes/irritability
- Dry itchy skin
- Tingling in hands or feet
Risk Factors
- Aged 45 or older
- Family history
- Being overweight
- Inactive lifestyle (lack of exercise)
- Race/Ethnicity
Diagnosis/Treatment
Type 2 diabetes can be diagnosed by a physician based on physical examination and family history. Glucose testing and diabetes screenings can also be performed to diagnose type 2 diabetes. Always consult your doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment.
Treatment for type 2 diabetes will be determined by your doctor and may include the following:
- proper diet
- weight loss or control
- exercise program
- foot inspections
- oral medications
- insulin replacement therapy
- regular monitoring of A1c levels
Referral to the Diabetes and Nutrition Counseling services:
In order to provide the best care possible, referral to any of the diabetes and nutrition counseling services is coordinated through your physician.
CONTACT US
LOCATION
Diabetes and nutrition counseling servicse is located on the campus of Barnes-Jewish West County Hospital in Medical Office Building 1.
1040 N. Mason Road
Medical Office Building 1, Suite 103
Creve Coeur, MO 63141
314.996.3823 office
314.996.3270 fax