Diabetes Specialist

Apex Medical Center

Pain Management Physicians & Internists located in Las Vegas, NV

More than 30 million Americans have diabetes, and approximately 1.5 million people are diagnosed with the disease each year. As one of the leading causes of death in the United States, diabetes is a serious health issue that deserves increased awareness. At Apex Medical Center, David Ezeanolue, M.D., C.I.M.E., Alafuro T. Oruene, M.D., Blanche Y. Bonnick, M.D., and the rest of the medical team provide comprehensive diabetes care to men and women throughout the greater Las Vegas and Henderson, Nevada, areas. To learn more or to begin your treatment path, call or schedule an appointment online today.

Diabetes Q & A

What is diabetes?

Simply put, diabetes is a condition where your body can’t properly convert food into energy. When you eat, much of the food turns into glucose, which is a type of sugar. That glucose is stored in your cells.

Insulin allows glucose to enter your cells. Diabetes impacts your body’s ability to create insulin or prevents your body from effectively using it. As a result, excess glucose, or sugar, accumulates in your blood.

That facilitates several adverse effects, including an elevated risk of heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, blindness, and even amputations of the feet and legs.

What is the difference between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes?

Type 1 diabetes usually develops during childhood and is believed to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. People with Type 1 diabetes don’t produce insulin and usually require insulin therapy to maintain optimal health. This kind of diabetes only accounts for around 5% of all cases.

Type 2 diabetes is much more common. People with Type 2 diabetes either don’t produce sufficient levels of insulin or are unable to make proper use of the insulin they do produce. While there may be genetic or environmental factors that lead to the development of Type 2 diabetes, researchers know failing to maintain a healthy weight is a primary cause of the disease.

How is diabetes treated?

Your doctor devises an individualized treatment plan that’s in line with your specific health issues. While there’s no cure for diabetes, it’s possible to manage the disease.

Treatment differs depending on the individual, but options include:

  • Insulin therapy  
  • Weight-loss programs
  • Home blood sugar testing
  • Prescription medications

The most important component in managing diabetes is embracing a healthy diet and an active lifestyle. The team at Apex Medical Center can help you devise a customized treatment plan that’s in line with your current needs and future goals. Call today to set up an appointment for an initial consultation.