Uncontrolled Diabetes,
A Chronic Condition Many People Live With 

Hear from an Alice, Texas Family Doctor Who Has Treated Thousands of Patients with Diabetes

Diabetes is a chronic health condition that 6 million people are diagnosed with annually.

As one of the leading causes of disability and premature death in Texas, it's essential to understand how to manage diabetes and reduce its impact on your life.

"People can spend years of their life in bad health from uncontrolled diabetes," said CHRISTUS Health family medicine Dr. Gustavo Villarreal in Alice, Texas. Dr. Villarreal has treated thousands of patients with diabetes and other chronic health conditions.

What is Uncontrolled Diabetes, and Why is it Important to Understand?

Diabetes is a serious health condition when the body cannot properly regulate blood sugar levels due to a lack of insulin or insulin resistance.

Insulin resistance can lead to many complications, including nerve damage, vision loss, kidney failure, and heart disease, to name a few.

It is essential to understand the risks associated with uncontrolled diabetes as it is a leading cause of disability and premature death worldwide.

Managing or preventing this condition is crucial to living a healthy and fulfilling life.

By prioritizing your health and seeking medical attention if needed, you can gain greater control over your diabetes and reduce the risk of severe health complications.

Understanding the Symptoms of Uncontrolled Diabetes

Uncontrolled diabetes is a serious condition that affects millions of people worldwide. While many are aware of the disease, not everyone understands its symptoms and how it can impact their health.

One of the most common signs of uncontrolled diabetes is high blood sugar, which can cause many symptoms, including excessive thirst, frequent urination, and dry mouth.

“When people have uncontrolled diabetes, it affects your kidneys, your heart, your eyes, your nerves, people started getting tingling,” said Dr. William Pickard, a CHRISTUS Health family medicine doctor in Port Arthur. “It wreaks havoc on your body. And unfortunately for a lot of people, they think their symptoms are something else.”

Other symptoms include fatigue, blurred vision, and unexplained weight loss. In addition, uncontrolled diabetes can lead to severe complications like nerve damage, kidney damage, and even blindness.

Understanding the symptoms of this disease is vital to maintaining good health and preventing long-term complications.

With early treatment and regular monitoring, people with diabetes can live normal, healthy lives.

Family History Leading Contributor to Uncontrolled Diabetes

Family history is a significant factor for the development of diabetes.

If you have regular checkups with a primary care doctor, you're likely going to get your sugar checked regardless of what test is getting ordered.

“If you've got diabetes in the family, we do start testing earlier,” Pickard said.

If a patient does not have family history of diabetes, the American Academy of Family Physicians recommends screenings for type 2 diabetes in adults 40 to 70.

The Role of Diet and Exercise in Managing Uncontrolled Diabetes

Managing uncontrolled diabetes can be a challenge for many individuals. However, with the right strategies, the condition can be improved.

One of the best methods is through a combination of diet and exercise. Incorporating low-glycemic foods and reducing the intake of processed and sugary foods can help stabilize blood sugar levels.

Additionally, incorporating regular physical activity into the daily routine can improve insulin sensitivity and lower blood sugar levels.

Together, these lifestyle changes can help individuals better manage their diabetes and maintain a healthier overall lifestyle.

However, consulting with a healthcare professional before starting any new diet or exercise program is essential to ensure it's safe and appropriate for individual needs.

The Significance of Regular Health Checkups for Controlling Diabetes

Controlling diabetes is difficult, but regular health checkups can make it manageable.

By taking care of your health, you are actively engaging in diabetes management, which ultimately leads to a healthier and happier life. In addition, a health checkup gives you a chance to discuss your concerns with your healthcare provider, and it can offer insight into any undetected health issues.

Additionally, regular checkups allow you to check your blood sugar levels, blood pressure, and weight regularly, which are essential components of diabetes management.

Ultimately, early detection and treatment can prevent the progression of diabetes and its associated complications. Remember, taking care of your health is the first step to a lifetime of optimal well-being.

The importance of combating uncontrolled diabetes cannot be overstated. Finding ways to have it under control is essential for living a healthy life.