Diabetes Management

Our dedicated diabetes management services ensure that you and your loved ones receive the comprehensive care needed when living with diabetes. Managing diabetes is not just about timely medication, it needs a holistic approach to your overall well-being.

At Kimball Health Services, we understand that careful monitoring is important and design personalized care plans that take every aspect of your health into account.

We focus on empowering you with the knowledge and tools you need to:

Maintain optimal blood sugar control
Prevent complications in the long term

We provide guidance, education, and personalized care that goes beyond the routine to help you achieve a healthy and fulfilling life despite diabetes.

What is diabetes?

Diabetes is a chronic health condition characterized by elevated blood sugar levels. It hinders the body’s ability to produce or respond to insulin, a hormone crucial for regulating blood sugar levels.

Prolonged high blood sugar levels can lead to serious health complications, such as heart disease, nerve damage, kidney problems, and vision issues, if not managed properly.

Types of Diabetes

There are three main types of diabetes.

1. Type 1 Diabetes

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks and destroys insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. This form of diabetes is typically diagnosed in children and young adults and requires lifelong insulin therapy.

2. Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of the condition and often develops in adults. It results from insulin resistance, where the body's cells do not respond effectively to insulin.

3. Gestational Diabetes

Gestational diabetes occurs during pregnancy when the body cannot produce enough insulin to meet increased demands. Women with gestational diabetes have a higher risk of developing Type 2 diabetes later in life.

Symptoms of Diabetes

Diabetes exhibit a range of symptoms that may differ in intensity based on the severity of the condition. Common signs of diabetes include:

Excessive thirst and frequent urination
Fatigue and weakness
Unexplained weight loss or gain
Increased hunger (polyphagia)
Blurred vision
Slow-healing wounds
Numbness and tingling

In certain instances, diabetes might not exhibit any symptoms, especially during its initial stages. Therefore, routine check-ups and screenings are crucial for prompt diagnosis and effective diabetes management.

Risk Factors

While each type of diabetes is associated with specific causes and risk factors, some common factors that can elevate the risk of developing diabetes include:

Genetic background
Excess weight
Lack of physical activity
Unhealthy eating habits
Advancing age

Regular check-ups and early detection play a crucial role in effective diabetes management.

Diagnosis of Diabetes

The diagnosis of diabetes requires a comprehensive approach, beginning with a detailed medical history and physical examination. This initial step helps in understanding your symptoms and risk factors.

Subsequently, blood glucose testing is performed to gauge the glucose levels in your bloodstream. Elevated levels may suggest diabetes.

Specific tests that provide valuable insights include:

Fasting Blood Glucose Test
Random Blood Glucose Test
A1c Test

For an accurate diabetes diagnosis, we combine the test results with the medical history, symptoms, and risk factors. Our healthcare professionals at Kimball Health Services take a holistic approach to ensure we provide you with an accurate diagnosis for your condition.

Diabetes Management Strategies

At Kimball Health Services, we understand the challenges of managing diabetes and will support you throughout the journey. Our expert team will provide you with individualized care and guidance. Here are some strategies we emphasize:

1. Lifestyle Modifications

Lifestyle changes that can help you manage your condition may include:

Healthy eating and meal planning
Regular exercise
Healthy weight management

2. Medications for Diabetes Management

Tailoring medication based on your diabetes type is crucial for effective diabetes management. Our services include:

Insulin administration, which is essential for Type 1 and sometimes for Type 2 diabetes. Our team will assist you with safe insulin administration.
Oral Medications for Type 2 Diabetes may be prescribed to manage blood sugar levels effectively.

3. Blood Glucose Monitoring and Self-Care

Regular blood glucose checks are vital for managing diabetes. We guide you in conducting self-checks, interpreting results, and understanding unique blood glucose targets for optimal health. For those on insulin therapy, we ensure you learn safe administration practices.

Prevention and Management of Complications

To prevent diabetes-related complications, we recommend prioritizing:

Regular eye examinations and foot care
Routine check-ups and screenings for related health conditions
Effective stress management and mental health assistance

Our comprehensive approach at Kimball Health Services ensures you receive the support and knowledge needed to manage diabetes effectively and improve your overall well-being.

Diabetes Care at Kimball Health Services

To our valued patients managing diabetes, your well-being is our priority. Early detection and timely care are pivotal in your diabetes journey. If you're experiencing symptoms or need guidance, don't hesitate to contact Kimball Health Services today.

In case of an emergency, call 911 or walk into our emergency department anytime. For appointments, call ahead or fill out our online form. We're here for you whenever you need us.