Diabetes is a metabolic disease that develops when the amount of sugar in the blood (or blood glucose) is elevated. When not treated or managed properly, diabetes can produce serious consequences to your health. Unfortunately, diabetes and heart disease often go hand in hand. In fact, diabetics are two to four times more likely to have heart disease or suffer a stroke. Therefore, Corrielus Cardiology helps patients realize the importance of managing their diabetic condition as a way to avoid life-threatening heart complications. In many cases, we start by offering simple changes in lifestyle habits that can make a profound difference towards diabetes management.
Symptoms & Causes of Diabetes
When it comes to heart disease and other detrimental side effects, those with type 2 diabetes are at greater risk. Type 2 diabetes causes the body to not use or make insulin in a proper manner. Therefore, the amount of sugar in the blood gets too high. Over time, these elevated blood glucose levels can causes damage to the blood vessels throughout the body, including those in the heart.
There are a significant number of patients who have diabetes, yet are unaware of their condition, which makes it vitally important to see your healthcare provider on a routine basis as well as know the symptoms of diabetes. While not everyone has noticeable symptoms, here are the most common warning signs for diabetes:
- Urinating often
- Excessive thirst
- Feeling hungry, despite eating
- Extreme fatigue
- Blurry vision
- Cuts/bruises that are slow to heal
- Unexplained weight loss (type 1)
- Tingling, pain, or numbness in the hands/feet (type 2)
Fortunately, it is possible to control or manage your diabetes. At Corrielus Cardiology, we are proud to offer a unique, integrative approach that addresses optimal blood sugar levels as well as other potential threats to your overall health.
Treatment of Diabetes
Since type 2 diabetes is often the result of factors such as high blood pressure, obesity, a high-fat diet, smoking and a sedentary lifestyle, it comes to no surprise that diabetes and heart disease are closely linked. Recent research evidence even suggests that elevated blood sugar is directly related to an increase in cardiac events.
When choosing Corrielus Cardiology, you can expect a thorough evaluation of your current health, including tests to measure the presence or severity of metabolic disease. Dr. Corrielus can help you manage your diabetes while preventing or slowing down the effects on your overall health. This may include medicine, lifestyle guidance and other non-invasive treatment options.
To learn more about our unique integrative care model for diabetes and heart disease, please contact Corrielus Cardiology today. We welcome the opportunity to improve your health and your quality of life in Philadelphia.
