Do you know just how common Diabetes is? According to the Center for Disease Control, about 29.1 million adults in the US have diabetes, about 5% of them with Type 1 diabetes. Both types have to do with genetics and environmental factors, but the exact cause is still undetermined. 

Do you know what diabetes is?

• Type 1:  The pancreas stops producing insulin altogether. Insulin is the hormone that controls blood sugar levels, so blood sugar increases and can cause damage.
• Type 2: The pancreas still produces insulin, but the body cannot use it properly. This also leads to high blood glucose levels.

Do you know that diabetes is manageable?

• Type 1 diabetics are diagnosed as children or young adults. These diabetics need insulin treatment in conjunction with a healthy diet and exercise.
• Type 2 diabetics may be diagnosed later (older than 45), and some can control diabetes just by making changes to diet and exercise. Others may need oral medication and insulin therapy to supplement lifestyle changes.
• See the risk factors below and make lifestyle changes to reduce risks.

Do you know that you might be more at risk if:

• You are overweight.
• You smoke and engage in other unhealthy habits.
• You lead a sedentary or inactive lifestyle.
• You have high blood glucose, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol.
• You have had gestational diabetes, which can lead to type 2 diabetes later in life.

Do you know that diabetes affects the feet?

• Diabetic neuropathy can be the result of high blood sugar levels. Nerves are damaged and you lose feeling, mostly in the legs and feet.
• Numbness or tingling in the feet are often the first signs of diabetes.
• Diabetic neuropathy can also decrease blood flow and cause poor circulation in the feet, making it harder to detect and heal infections and injuries.

Now that you know, don’t forget to check your feet every day. If you have noticed numbness or tingling in your feet, it’s important that you consult with our podiatrist, Dr. Jonathan M. Kletz, at Texas Foot Works. He will assess your feet and ankles to properly diagnose the issue. Make an appointment today at any of our Texas offices in Abrams (Dallas), Athens, and Gun Barrell City!