What Type Of Doctor Treats Diabetes And How Can They Help?

The type of doctor that treats diabetes is primarily an endocrinologist, but a comprehensive diabetes care team is essential for managing this condition effectively, and you can find trusted information and resources at thebootdoctor.net. These specialists can provide expert care, personalized treatment plans, and guidance on lifestyle modifications to help manage your condition effectively. Beyond endocrinologists, other healthcare professionals play crucial roles in diabetes care, including podiatrists, diabetes educators, dietitians, and primary care physicians.

1. Understanding Diabetes and the Need for Specialized Care

Diabetes is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by elevated blood sugar levels, impacting how your body converts food into energy. Instead of glucose fueling your cells, it builds up in your bloodstream. This happens either because the pancreas doesn’t produce enough insulin or because cells don’t respond properly to the insulin produced. Over time, high blood sugar can lead to serious health problems such as heart disease, kidney disease, nerve damage (neuropathy), and eye damage (retinopathy). There are two main types of diabetes: type 1 and type 2.

  • Type 1 Diabetes: This is an autoimmune condition where the body’s immune system attacks and destroys insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. People with type 1 diabetes need to take insulin daily to survive.
  • Type 2 Diabetes: This is the most common form of diabetes, often developing in adulthood. It occurs when the body becomes resistant to insulin or when the pancreas doesn’t produce enough insulin to maintain normal blood sugar levels.
    Effective diabetes management requires a multifaceted approach, often necessitating the expertise of various healthcare professionals. While primary care physicians can manage many aspects of diabetes care, specialists like endocrinologists are often better equipped to handle more complex cases or specific complications.

2. The Role of an Endocrinologist in Diabetes Management

An endocrinologist is a medical doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating hormonal disorders, including diabetes. They possess in-depth knowledge of the endocrine system, which includes the pancreas, thyroid gland, adrenal glands, and other hormone-producing organs. Endocrinologists are trained to manage all types of diabetes, from type 1 and type 2 to gestational diabetes (which develops during pregnancy) and other less common forms.

What does an endocrinologist do for diabetes patients?

Endocrinologists play a crucial role in diabetes management by:

  • Diagnosis and Assessment: They can accurately diagnose diabetes and assess the severity of the condition through comprehensive evaluations, including blood tests and physical examinations.
  • Personalized Treatment Plans: Based on individual needs, endocrinologists develop tailored treatment plans that may include lifestyle modifications (diet and exercise), oral medications, insulin therapy, and other advanced therapies.
  • Medication Management: They prescribe and manage medications to control blood sugar levels, considering factors such as efficacy, side effects, and patient preferences. This includes adjusting insulin dosages, prescribing oral hypoglycemic agents, and monitoring their effectiveness.
  • Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM): Endocrinologists can prescribe and interpret data from CGMs, which continuously track blood sugar levels throughout the day and night. This technology provides valuable insights into how food, exercise, and medications affect blood sugar, allowing for more precise diabetes management.
  • Insulin Pump Therapy: They can initiate and manage insulin pump therapy for patients who require intensive insulin management. Insulin pumps deliver a steady stream of insulin throughout the day and can be programmed to deliver bolus doses before meals.
  • Education and Counseling: Endocrinologists educate patients about diabetes, its complications, and how to manage it effectively. They also provide counseling on diet, exercise, and self-monitoring techniques.
  • Complication Management: They monitor for and manage diabetes-related complications such as neuropathy, nephropathy (kidney disease), retinopathy, and cardiovascular disease.
  • Collaboration with Other Specialists: Endocrinologists work closely with other healthcare professionals, such as podiatrists, ophthalmologists, and cardiologists, to provide comprehensive care for patients with diabetes.

When should you see an endocrinologist for diabetes?

While a primary care physician can manage many aspects of diabetes care, there are situations where seeing an endocrinologist is highly recommended:

  • New Diabetes Diagnosis: Consulting an endocrinologist at the time of diagnosis can ensure proper evaluation, education, and a personalized treatment plan.
  • Difficulty Managing Blood Sugar: If blood sugar levels are consistently high or fluctuate widely despite treatment, an endocrinologist can help adjust medications and develop a more effective management strategy.
  • Diabetes Complications: If you develop complications such as neuropathy, nephropathy, or retinopathy, an endocrinologist can provide specialized care and coordinate treatment with other specialists.
  • Insulin Pump or Advanced Therapies: If you are considering insulin pump therapy or other advanced diabetes treatments, an endocrinologist can assess your suitability and provide expert management.
  • Pregnancy: Women with diabetes who are planning to become pregnant or are already pregnant should see an endocrinologist for specialized care to ensure a healthy pregnancy and minimize risks to both mother and baby.
  • Unclear Diagnosis: In rare cases, the type of diabetes may be unclear. An endocrinologist can perform specialized tests to determine the correct diagnosis and guide appropriate treatment.

3. The Importance of a Diabetes Care Team

Managing diabetes effectively often requires a team-based approach, involving various healthcare professionals who bring their unique expertise to the table. A comprehensive diabetes care team may include:

  • Endocrinologist: As discussed earlier, endocrinologists are specialists in hormonal disorders, including diabetes, and can provide expert medical management.
  • Primary Care Physician (PCP): PCPs play a vital role in coordinating overall healthcare and managing routine aspects of diabetes care, such as monitoring blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
  • Certified Diabetes Educator (CDE): CDEs are healthcare professionals, such as nurses, dietitians, or pharmacists, who have specialized training in diabetes education. They teach patients how to manage their diabetes through lifestyle modifications, self-monitoring techniques, and medication management.
  • Registered Dietitian (RD): RDs provide guidance on healthy eating habits and meal planning to help patients control blood sugar levels and maintain a healthy weight. They can create personalized meal plans based on individual needs and preferences.
  • Podiatrist: Podiatrists specialize in foot care and can help prevent and manage diabetes-related foot problems such as neuropathy, ulcers, and infections. Regular foot exams and proper foot care are essential for people with diabetes.
  • Ophthalmologist: Ophthalmologists specialize in eye care and can detect and treat diabetes-related eye complications such as retinopathy, cataracts, and glaucoma. Regular eye exams are crucial for preventing vision loss.
  • Nephrologist: Nephrologists specialize in kidney care and can manage diabetes-related kidney disease (nephropathy). They monitor kidney function and provide treatments to slow the progression of kidney damage.
  • Cardiologist: Cardiologists specialize in heart care and can help prevent and manage diabetes-related cardiovascular disease. People with diabetes are at increased risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other heart problems.
  • Pharmacist: Pharmacists can provide information about diabetes medications, potential side effects, and drug interactions. They can also help patients manage their medications and ensure they are taking them correctly.
  • Mental Health Professional: Diabetes can take a toll on mental health, leading to stress, anxiety, and depression. Mental health professionals can provide counseling and support to help patients cope with the emotional challenges of living with diabetes.

4. Specific Types of Doctors and Their Roles in Diabetes Care

Let’s delve deeper into the specific roles of different types of doctors and healthcare professionals in diabetes care:

4.1. Podiatrists: Foot Care Specialists

Diabetes can damage nerves and reduce blood flow to the feet, increasing the risk of foot problems such as neuropathy, ulcers, and infections. Podiatrists are essential members of the diabetes care team because they specialize in foot care and can help prevent and manage these complications.

What does a podiatrist do for diabetes patients?

  • Regular Foot Exams: Podiatrists perform comprehensive foot exams to assess nerve function, blood flow, and identify any signs of foot problems.
  • Wound Care: They provide specialized wound care for diabetic foot ulcers, including debridement (removing dead tissue), infection management, and offloading pressure from the wound.
  • Custom Orthotics: Podiatrists can prescribe custom orthotics (shoe inserts) to provide support, cushioning, and pressure relief for the feet, reducing the risk of ulcers and other foot problems.
  • Footwear Recommendations: They advise patients on proper footwear choices to protect their feet and accommodate any foot deformities.
  • Nail Care: Podiatrists can trim toenails properly to prevent ingrown toenails and other nail problems.
  • Patient Education: They educate patients about proper foot care techniques, including daily foot inspections, washing and drying feet thoroughly, and moisturizing to prevent dry skin and cracks.
  • Surgical Interventions: In severe cases, podiatrists may perform surgical procedures to correct foot deformities, remove infected tissue, or improve blood flow to the feet.

4.2. Ophthalmologists: Eye Care Specialists

Diabetes can damage the blood vessels in the retina, leading to diabetic retinopathy, a leading cause of blindness. Ophthalmologists are eye care specialists who can detect and treat diabetes-related eye complications.

What does an ophthalmologist do for diabetes patients?

  • Comprehensive Eye Exams: Ophthalmologists perform comprehensive eye exams to assess the health of the retina and detect any signs of diabetic retinopathy, cataracts, or glaucoma.
  • Retinal Imaging: They use advanced imaging techniques such as optical coherence tomography (OCT) and fluorescein angiography to visualize the retina and identify subtle changes that may indicate early stages of retinopathy.
  • Laser Treatment: Ophthalmologists can perform laser treatments to seal off leaking blood vessels in the retina and prevent further vision loss from retinopathy.
  • Injections: They may inject medications into the eye to reduce swelling and inflammation in the retina, improving vision.
  • Surgery: In severe cases, ophthalmologists may perform surgery to remove scar tissue or repair a detached retina.
  • Coordination with Other Specialists: Ophthalmologists work closely with endocrinologists and other healthcare professionals to coordinate diabetes care and prevent vision loss.

4.3. Nephrologists: Kidney Care Specialists

Diabetes is a leading cause of kidney disease (nephropathy). High blood sugar levels can damage the blood vessels in the kidneys, impairing their ability to filter waste and excess fluid from the body. Nephrologists specialize in kidney care and can help manage diabetes-related kidney disease.

What does a nephrologist do for diabetes patients?

  • Kidney Function Monitoring: Nephrologists monitor kidney function through blood and urine tests to detect early signs of kidney damage.
  • Blood Pressure Control: They manage blood pressure to protect the kidneys from further damage. High blood pressure is a major risk factor for kidney disease in people with diabetes.
  • Medication Management: Nephrologists prescribe medications to slow the progression of kidney disease, such as ACE inhibitors and ARBs, which help lower blood pressure and protect kidney function.
  • Dietary Recommendations: They provide dietary recommendations to help patients manage their kidney disease, such as limiting protein intake and reducing sodium and phosphorus consumption.
  • Dialysis: In advanced stages of kidney disease, nephrologists may initiate and manage dialysis, a treatment that filters waste and excess fluid from the blood when the kidneys can no longer do so adequately.
  • Kidney Transplant: Nephrologists evaluate patients for kidney transplantation and provide post-transplant care.
  • Collaboration with Other Specialists: Nephrologists work closely with endocrinologists and other healthcare professionals to coordinate diabetes care and prevent kidney failure.

4.4. Cardiologists: Heart Care Specialists

People with diabetes are at increased risk of heart disease, including heart attacks, strokes, and heart failure. High blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels and nerves that control the heart, leading to these complications. Cardiologists specialize in heart care and can help prevent and manage diabetes-related cardiovascular disease.

What does a cardiologist do for diabetes patients?

  • Cardiovascular Risk Assessment: Cardiologists assess cardiovascular risk factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, and family history of heart disease.
  • Diagnostic Testing: They perform diagnostic tests such as electrocardiograms (ECGs), echocardiograms, and stress tests to evaluate heart function and detect any signs of heart disease.
  • Medication Management: Cardiologists prescribe medications to manage blood pressure, cholesterol, and other cardiovascular risk factors. They may also prescribe medications to prevent blood clots and reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
  • Lifestyle Recommendations: They provide lifestyle recommendations to improve heart health, such as quitting smoking, eating a healthy diet, and engaging in regular physical activity.
  • Interventional Procedures: Cardiologists perform interventional procedures such as angioplasty and stenting to open blocked arteries and improve blood flow to the heart.
  • Surgery: In severe cases, cardiologists may perform heart surgery to bypass blocked arteries or repair damaged heart valves.
  • Collaboration with Other Specialists: Cardiologists work closely with endocrinologists and other healthcare professionals to coordinate diabetes care and prevent cardiovascular complications.

4.5. Certified Diabetes Educators: Empowering Patients Through Knowledge

Certified Diabetes Educators (CDEs) are healthcare professionals who have specialized training in diabetes education. They play a crucial role in empowering patients to manage their diabetes effectively through knowledge and self-management skills.

What does a certified diabetes educator do for diabetes patients?

  • Diabetes Education: CDEs provide comprehensive education about diabetes, including its causes, risk factors, complications, and management strategies.
  • Self-Monitoring Training: They teach patients how to monitor their blood sugar levels, interpret the results, and adjust their treatment plan accordingly.
  • Medication Management: CDEs provide information about diabetes medications, including their purpose, dosage, side effects, and how to take them correctly.
  • Lifestyle Counseling: They provide counseling on healthy eating habits, meal planning, exercise, and stress management to help patients manage their diabetes effectively.
  • Problem-Solving Skills: CDEs help patients develop problem-solving skills to address challenges related to diabetes management, such as managing blood sugar during illness or travel.
  • Support and Motivation: They provide ongoing support and motivation to help patients stay engaged in their diabetes care and achieve their goals.
  • Collaboration with Other Specialists: CDEs work closely with endocrinologists, primary care physicians, and other healthcare professionals to coordinate diabetes care and ensure patients receive comprehensive support.

4.6. Registered Dietitians: Nutrition Experts

Registered Dietitians (RDs) are nutrition experts who provide guidance on healthy eating habits and meal planning to help patients control blood sugar levels and maintain a healthy weight.

What does a registered dietitian do for diabetes patients?

  • Nutritional Assessment: RDs conduct thorough nutritional assessments to evaluate patients’ dietary habits, food preferences, and nutritional needs.
  • Personalized Meal Plans: They develop personalized meal plans that are tailored to individual needs, preferences, and cultural backgrounds.
  • Carbohydrate Counting: RDs teach patients how to count carbohydrates in their meals and adjust their insulin doses accordingly.
  • Portion Control: They provide guidance on portion control to help patients manage their weight and blood sugar levels.
  • Healthy Eating Education: RDs educate patients about healthy food choices, meal timing, and reading food labels.
  • Special Dietary Needs: They provide guidance on managing diabetes with special dietary needs, such as vegetarianism, veganism, or food allergies.
  • Collaboration with Other Specialists: RDs work closely with endocrinologists, certified diabetes educators, and other healthcare professionals to coordinate diabetes care and ensure patients receive comprehensive support.

5. Finding the Right Diabetes Care Team in Houston

If you live in Houston or the surrounding area, finding a qualified diabetes care team is essential for managing your condition effectively. Here are some tips for finding the right healthcare professionals:

  • Ask Your Primary Care Physician for Referrals: Your PCP can recommend endocrinologists, podiatrists, and other specialists who have experience in diabetes care.
  • Check with Local Hospitals and Clinics: Many hospitals and clinics in Houston have specialized diabetes centers or programs that offer comprehensive care from a multidisciplinary team.
  • Use Online Resources: Websites like the American Diabetes Association (ADA) and the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) have directories of healthcare professionals who specialize in diabetes care.
  • Read Online Reviews: Check online reviews to see what other patients have to say about their experiences with different doctors and clinics.
  • Consider Your Insurance Coverage: Make sure the healthcare professionals you choose are in your insurance network to minimize out-of-pocket costs.

Thebootdoctor.net can also be a valuable resource for finding information and guidance on diabetes care in Houston.

6. The Importance of Regular Check-ups and Monitoring

Regular check-ups and monitoring are crucial for preventing complications and maintaining optimal health. Here’s what you need to know:

  • Blood Sugar Monitoring: Regular blood sugar monitoring is essential for managing diabetes effectively. Your doctor will advise you on how often to check your blood sugar and what your target range should be.
  • A1c Testing: The A1c test measures your average blood sugar level over the past 2-3 months. It’s a useful tool for assessing how well your diabetes is being managed. The American Diabetes Association recommends that most people with diabetes aim for an A1c level of less than 7%.
  • Regular Foot Exams: People with diabetes should have their feet examined regularly by a podiatrist to check for nerve damage, poor circulation, and other foot problems. The frequency of foot exams will depend on individual risk factors and the presence of any foot problems.
  • Annual Eye Exams: People with diabetes should have an annual dilated eye exam to check for diabetic retinopathy, cataracts, and glaucoma. Early detection and treatment of eye problems can prevent vision loss.
  • Kidney Function Monitoring: Regular kidney function testing is essential for detecting early signs of kidney damage. Your doctor will monitor your blood pressure and urine protein levels to assess your kidney health.
  • Cardiovascular Risk Assessment: People with diabetes should have regular cardiovascular risk assessments to identify and manage risk factors for heart disease, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and smoking.

7. Lifestyle Modifications for Diabetes Management

In addition to medical care, lifestyle modifications are essential for managing diabetes effectively. These include:

  • Healthy Eating: Following a healthy eating plan is crucial for controlling blood sugar levels and maintaining a healthy weight. Focus on eating whole, unprocessed foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein sources.
  • Regular Physical Activity: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity most days of the week. Exercise helps improve insulin sensitivity, lower blood sugar levels, and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
  • Weight Management: If you are overweight or obese, losing even a small amount of weight can have a significant impact on your blood sugar levels and overall health.
  • Stress Management: Chronic stress can raise blood sugar levels. Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as yoga, meditation, or spending time in nature.
  • Smoking Cessation: Smoking increases the risk of diabetes complications, such as heart disease, kidney disease, and nerve damage. Quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for your health.
  • Alcohol Consumption: If you choose to drink alcohol, do so in moderation. Alcohol can lower blood sugar levels and interfere with diabetes medications.
  • Sleep Hygiene: Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep per night. Poor sleep can affect blood sugar levels and increase the risk of diabetes complications.

8. Latest Advances in Diabetes Treatment and Technology

The field of diabetes care is constantly evolving, with new treatments and technologies emerging to improve patient outcomes. Some of the latest advances include:

Advancement Description
Continuous Glucose Monitors Continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) are small devices that continuously track blood sugar levels throughout the day and night. CGMs can alert patients when their blood sugar is too high or too low, allowing them to take action to prevent dangerous fluctuations.
Insulin Pumps Insulin pumps are small, computerized devices that deliver a steady stream of insulin throughout the day and can be programmed to deliver bolus doses before meals. Insulin pumps can provide more precise insulin delivery than traditional insulin injections, leading to better blood sugar control.
Artificial Pancreas Systems Artificial pancreas systems, also known as closed-loop systems, combine a CGM, an insulin pump, and a computer algorithm to automatically regulate blood sugar levels. These systems can adjust insulin delivery based on real-time blood sugar readings, mimicking the function of a healthy pancreas.
New Medications Several new diabetes medications have been approved in recent years, including SGLT2 inhibitors and GLP-1 receptor agonists. These medications work through different mechanisms to lower blood sugar levels and have been shown to have cardiovascular benefits.
Bariatric Surgery Bariatric surgery, also known as weight loss surgery, can be an effective treatment option for people with type 2 diabetes who are obese. Bariatric surgery can lead to significant weight loss and improvement in blood sugar control, often allowing patients to reduce or eliminate their diabetes medications. Research from the American Diabetes Association in July 2025 found that bariatric surgery provides improvement in blood sugar control in 80% of obese patients with type 2 diabetes.
Cell-Based Therapies Researchers are exploring cell-based therapies, such as islet cell transplantation and stem cell therapy, to restore insulin production in people with type 1 diabetes. These therapies involve transplanting healthy insulin-producing cells into the body to replace the damaged cells.

9. Addressing Common Misconceptions About Diabetes

There are many misconceptions about diabetes that can lead to confusion and misinformation. Here are some common myths and the facts behind them:

Myth Fact
Diabetes is caused by eating too much sugar Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease, while type 2 diabetes is caused by a combination of genetic and lifestyle factors. While a high-sugar diet can contribute to weight gain and insulin resistance, it’s not the sole cause of diabetes.
People with diabetes can’t eat sweets People with diabetes can eat sweets in moderation as part of a healthy eating plan. The key is to balance carbohydrate intake and monitor blood sugar levels.
Diabetes is not a serious disease Diabetes is a serious disease that can lead to many complications, including heart disease, kidney disease, nerve damage, and vision loss. Effective management of diabetes is essential for preventing these complications.
Insulin is a last resort for diabetes Insulin is a life-saving medication for people with type 1 diabetes and may be necessary for some people with type 2 diabetes to control blood sugar levels. Insulin is not a sign of failure but rather a tool for managing diabetes effectively.
Diabetes is contagious Diabetes is not contagious. It’s a chronic metabolic disorder that is not caused by an infectious agent.
Only overweight people get diabetes While obesity is a risk factor for type 2 diabetes, people of all sizes can develop the condition. Other risk factors include genetics, age, ethnicity, and lifestyle factors.
Diabetes can be cured Currently, there is no cure for diabetes. However, with proper management, people with diabetes can live long and healthy lives. Some people with type 2 diabetes may be able to achieve remission through lifestyle changes or bariatric surgery, but they will still need to monitor their blood sugar levels and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Diabetes only affects older people While type 2 diabetes is more common in older adults, it can occur at any age. Type 1 diabetes typically develops in childhood or adolescence, but it can also occur in adults.
Alternative therapies can cure diabetes There is no scientific evidence to support the claim that alternative therapies can cure diabetes. It’s essential to rely on evidence-based medical treatments and work with a qualified healthcare team to manage diabetes effectively. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not review or approve alternative therapies; therefore, their safety and effectiveness are not guaranteed.

10. Taking Control of Your Diabetes Journey

Living with diabetes can be challenging, but it’s essential to remember that you are not alone. With the right medical care, education, and support, you can take control of your diabetes journey and live a long and healthy life. Here are some final tips for managing your diabetes effectively:

  • Be Proactive: Take an active role in your diabetes care by monitoring your blood sugar levels, following your treatment plan, and attending regular check-ups.
  • Educate Yourself: Learn as much as you can about diabetes and how to manage it effectively.
  • Build a Support System: Connect with other people with diabetes through support groups or online communities.
  • Set Realistic Goals: Set realistic goals for managing your diabetes and celebrate your successes along the way.
  • Be Kind to Yourself: Living with diabetes can be stressful. Be kind to yourself and practice self-care.
  • Stay Positive: Maintain a positive attitude and focus on the things you can control.

By understanding the roles of different types of doctors and healthcare professionals, finding the right diabetes care team, and adopting a healthy lifestyle, you can effectively manage your diabetes and prevent complications. Remember, thebootdoctor.net is here to provide you with valuable information and resources to support you on your journey to better health.

If you’re seeking reliable guidance and expert care for your feet, especially concerning diabetes-related issues, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.

Address: 6565 Fannin St, Houston, TX 77030, United States

Phone: +1 (713) 791-1414

Website: thebootdoctor.net

FAQ about Doctors Treating Diabetes

  • What kind of doctor should I see for diabetes management?

    You should see an endocrinologist, a specialist in hormonal disorders, including diabetes, for expert medical management. A comprehensive diabetes care team, including a primary care physician, certified diabetes educator, registered dietitian, podiatrist, ophthalmologist, nephrologist, cardiologist, pharmacist, and mental health professional, is also essential for managing diabetes effectively.

  • Can my family doctor treat my diabetes?

    Yes, your family doctor can manage many aspects of diabetes care, especially for routine cases. However, for complex cases or specific complications, an endocrinologist is recommended.

  • How often should I see a podiatrist if I have diabetes?

    People with diabetes should have their feet examined regularly by a podiatrist to check for nerve damage, poor circulation, and other foot problems. The frequency of foot exams will depend on individual risk factors and the presence of any foot problems. Your podiatrist will advise on the appropriate schedule.

  • Why do I need to see an eye doctor if I have diabetes?

    People with diabetes should have an annual dilated eye exam to check for diabetic retinopathy, cataracts, and glaucoma. Early detection and treatment of eye problems can prevent vision loss.

  • What is a Certified Diabetes Educator (CDE)?

    A Certified Diabetes Educator (CDE) is a healthcare professional who has specialized training in diabetes education. They teach patients how to manage their diabetes through lifestyle modifications, self-monitoring techniques, and medication management.

  • Can a dietitian help me manage my diabetes?

    Yes, a registered dietitian (RD) can provide guidance on healthy eating habits and meal planning to help you control blood sugar levels and maintain a healthy weight. They can create personalized meal plans based on your individual needs and preferences.

  • What is the role of a nephrologist in diabetes care?

    Nephrologists specialize in kidney care and can manage diabetes-related kidney disease (nephropathy). They monitor kidney function and provide treatments to slow the progression of kidney damage.

  • Why would I need to see a cardiologist if I have diabetes?

    People with diabetes are at increased risk of heart disease. A cardiologist can help prevent and manage diabetes-related cardiovascular disease.

  • What are the latest advancements in diabetes treatment?

    Latest advancements in diabetes treatment include continuous glucose monitors (CGMs), insulin pumps, artificial pancreas systems, new medications (SGLT2 inhibitors and GLP-1 receptor agonists), bariatric surgery, and cell-based therapies.

  • Where can I find a diabetes care team in Houston?

    You can find a diabetes care team in Houston by asking your primary care physician for referrals, checking with local hospitals and clinics for specialized diabetes centers or programs, using online resources like the American Diabetes Association (ADA) and the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE), and reading online reviews.

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