Diabetes

Diabetes (Mellitus) is a condition of disordered metabolism caused by an alteration of sugar metabolism.  Broadly speaking there are two types of diabetes which are either due to a diminished production of insulin (Type 1) or resistance to its effects (Type 2 or maturity onset). Type 2 Diabetes is also associated with gestational diabetes of pregnancy. Both types are usually due to a combination of hereditary and environmental causes.

People with Diabetes experience abnormalities in their blood sugar levels which are normally controlled by a complex interaction between multiple chemicals and hormones in the body, most importantly the hormone insulin which is made in the pancreas. Untreated, Diabetes  leads to high blood glucose levels which  in turn can damage nerves, blood vessels, kidneys and eyes. 

Uncontrolled high blood sugar causes the acute signs of diabetes (excessive urine production, compensatory thirst and increased fluid intake, blurred vision, unexplained weight loss, lethargy, and changes in energy metabolism).

Diabetes has been treatable since insulin became medically available in 1921, but there is no cure. Insulin injections remain the basic treatment of type 1 diabetes. Type 2 diabetes tends to be managed using a combination of dietary treatment, exercise, medications and insulin supplementation.

Adequate treatment of diabetes, increased awareness of blood pressure control and lifestyle factors (such as not smoking and maintaining a healthy body weight), significantly improve the risk profile of most of the chronic complications.

Members of our team of General Practitioners and General Internal Physicians are able to support patients with Diabetes alongside our Specialist Diabetes Nurse Sr Julie Parker who provides regular clinics and support for patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Diabetic eye screening is also provided by Dr Keti Pachkoria, our Ophthalmologist, whilst diabetic foot checks are performed by Kayron Pozo, our Podiatrist.

Our Diabetic Service team provides:

• Baseline assessment of disease status and current medications
• Dietary and lifestyle planning and monitoring
• Regular insulin and glycaemic control monitoring and treatment
• Eye and renal checks
• Foot health check
• Management of disease complications