Diabetes

Approximately 37.3 million people in the United States have diabetes. This chronic metabolic condition requires expert management. At Triad Primary Health and Wellness in High Point, North Carolina, Martina Ratliff, FNP-C, uses her expertise and skills to help you manage a complicated chronic condition like diabetes. Call today or use the online tool to schedule your appointment and learn more about the diabetes management services available.

What is diabetes?

Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how your body processes glucose (sugar). There are two main types: 

• Type 1 diabetes, which is an autoimmune disease where the body doesn't produce insulin
• Type 2 diabetes, which occurs when the body doesn't use insulin effectively 

Gestational diabetes is a third type that occurs only during pregnancy. It shares characteristics with Type 2 diabetes.

How can I manage diabetes?

Management of diabetes usually involves lifestyle changes. These include:

• Maintaining a healthy diet
• Engaging in regular physical activity
• Monitoring blood sugar levels
• Following doctor's recommendations

If you have Type 1 diabetes, Martina will likely have you take supplemental insulin. People with Type 2 diabetes often use medication to help control their condition.

What are the potential complications of uncontrolled diabetes?

Uncontrolled diabetes can lead to serious complications such as heart disease, kidney problems, vision impairment, nerve damage, and foot problems. Proper diabetes management helps reduce the risk of these complications.

Can I get help managing my diabetes?

The office of Triad Primary Health and Wellness offers invaluable diabetes care. Martina may be the first person to diagnose your condition through routine checkups and blood tests. 

She can also assess your risk factors and determine if you have prediabetes, in which your blood sugar levels are higher than normal, putting you at risk of developing the full-blown disease. She can help you take action at this point to reverse your health markers.

Martina also develops and oversees treatment plans that include lifestyle changes, medications, and insulin therapy. She tweaks this plan as needed to make sure you maintain healthy blood sugar levels. 

Triad Primary Health and Wellness offers regular monitoring through periodic checkups, blood tests, and A1c measurements. 

Martina also provides education about diabetes and its management. She helps you avoid complications by managing other conditions like high blood pressure, obesity, and high cholesterol. 

She coordinates her care with other providers on your health team to ensure you get seamless treatment.

You need a primary care provider who can play a central role in helping you manage diabetes. Call Triad Primary Health and Wellness today to schedule your appointment or book online.