Helping You Feel Your Best
Diabetes means that your blood sugar levels are higher than normal and although you may be feeling fine, it is important to take your condition seriously.
When we eat, food is broken down into glucose (sugar) and transported throughout the body by the bloodstream. A hormone called insulin moves glucose from the bloodstream into cells within the body. If you have diabetes, your pancreas may have stopped making insulin, or your body may be unable to use the insulin it makes, resulting in higher glucose levels.
Diabetes is not an easy diagnosis. It affects every part of your body and every day of your life. This complex condition doesn’t have a one-size-fits-all solution. But with expert care and guidance, we’ll help you’ll feel your best and stay healthy. ThedaCare certified diabetes educators apply current and comprehensive medical expertise to address your health needs.
Accredited Program from the American Diabetes Association
The American Diabetes Association (ADA) has accredited the ThedaCare Diabetes Education Program every year since 1999. You’ll work with ADA-recognized diabetes educators, dietitians and registered nurses who are skilled in treating all types of diabetes.
Because diabetes affects nearly every aspect of your health, specialized care will save you from additional health problems, dramatically decreasing your overall health care costs and will most likely be covered by your insurance, with a referral from your primary care provider.
Types of Diabetes
There are many types of diabetes, but high glucose (blood sugar) is common to all. If testing shows you have high blood sugar, your provider will assess your condition to diagnose the type of diabetes you have, which determines the course of action for your treatment. Types of diabetes include:
Gestational Diabetes
Gestational diabetes is diagnosed for the first time during pregnancy. This condition causes high blood sugar that can affect your pregnancy and your baby’s health. Treatment strategies include daily blood sugar monitoring, a healthy diet, exercise and monitoring the baby. If blood sugar is too high, medication is needed.
Prediabetes
Prediabetes is a condition in which blood sugar is high, but not high enough to be type 2 diabetes. Without intervention, it’s likely to become type 2 diabetes within 10 years. Many people with prediabetes have no symptoms. With lifestyle changes, weight loss, and medications, it’s possible to bring a blood sugar level back to normal.
Type 1 Diabetes
Type 1 diabetes typically occurs in childhood to early adulthood and results when the pancreas makes little or no insulin. Without insulin, blood sugar can’t get into cells and builds up in the bloodstream. Treatment aims at maintaining normal blood sugar levels through regular monitoring, insulin therapy, diet and exercise.
Type 2 Diabetes
Type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition that affects the way the body processes blood sugar (glucose). The body either doesn’t produce enough insulin or it resists insulin. Symptoms include increased thirst, frequent urination, hunger, fatigue and blurred vision. In some cases, there may be no symptoms. Treatments include diet, exercise, medication and insulin therapy.
Diabetes Education & Resources
Whether you’re newly diagnosed or have had diabetes for a while, it’s more manageable when you have extra support and expertise. Find customized education and other services for your condition from the caring team at ThedaCare. You’ll learn about everything from medical supplies to medication management. When you’re wondering about how to stay motivated on difficult days, your support team will help you find a way.
