Diabetes Management

DIABETES CARE

What is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a chronic medical condition that affects how your body uses glucose (blood sugar), an important source of energy for your cells. When diabetes is not well managed, high blood sugar levels can increase the risk of complications affecting the heart, kidneys, eyes, nerves, and blood vessels. Early diagnosis, regular monitoring, and ongoing medical care can help you live a healthy and active life.

There are three main types of diabetes:

Type 1 Diabetes is an autoimmune condition in which the body’s immune system attacks the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. People with Type 1 diabetes require insulin therapy for life.

Type 2 Diabetes is the most common form of diabetes. It occurs when the body becomes resistant to insulin or does not produce enough insulin to maintain normal blood sugar levels. Healthy lifestyle changes, medications, and regular follow-up can help manage Type 2 diabetes.

Gestational Diabetes develops during pregnancy and usually resolves after delivery. Managing blood sugar during pregnancy is important for the health of both mother and baby, and women who have gestational diabetes have an increased risk of developing Type 2 diabetes later in life.

Signs & Symptoms

Common signs and symptoms of diabetes may include:

• Increased thirst
• Frequent urination
• Increased hunger
• Fatigue or low energy
• Blurred vision
• Slow-healing cuts or wounds
• Frequent infections
• Numbness or tingling in the hands or feet
• Unexplained weight loss (more common in Type 1 diabetes)

If you are experiencing these symptoms, our healthcare team can assess your condition and recommend appropriate testing and treatment.

Do’s

Managing diabetes successfully involves healthy daily habits, including:

• Stay physically active with regular exercise.
• Follow a balanced, nutritious diet.
• Monitor your blood sugar as recommended.
• Take your medications exactly as prescribed.
• Check your feet regularly for cuts, sores, or changes.
• Attend routine eye examinations to help detect diabetes-related eye disease early.
• Keep regular appointments with your healthcare team.

Don’ts

To reduce your risk of complications, avoid:

• Smoking or using tobacco products.
• Skipping medications or insulin doses.
• Ignoring high or low blood sugar symptoms.
• Eating an unhealthy diet high in sugar and processed foods.
• Missing routine medical appointments and diabetes follow-up visits.

Diabetes Management

Our physicians provide comprehensive diabetes care focused on helping you successfully manage your condition and reduce your risk of long-term complications. We work closely with each patient to develop an individualized care plan that may include regular blood sugar monitoring, medication management, lifestyle counselling, laboratory testing, and preventive screening.

Whether you have been newly diagnosed with diabetes, require ongoing management, or are concerned about your risk of developing diabetes, our healthcare team is here to support you every step of the way.

Certified Diabetes Educators

HealthSmart Medical Clinic works closely with the HealthSmart Pharmasave pharmacy located next door, where Certified Diabetes Educators (CDEs) are available to provide additional education and support.

Our Certified Diabetes Educators can assist with:

• Blood glucose monitoring
• Insulin and medication education
• Healthy eating guidance
• Lifestyle counselling
• Blood sugar management
• Preventing diabetes complications
• Individualized diabetes education

Working together with your physician and pharmacist helps ensure you receive comprehensive, coordinated diabetes care.

How to Prepare for Your Appointment

To help us provide the best possible care, please bring:

• Your Ontario Health Card
• Your blood sugar log or glucose monitor (if available)
• A complete list of your medications, vitamins, and supplements
• Recent laboratory results (if available)
• Any diabetes devices you currently use, such as an insulin pump or continuous glucose monitor
• A list of questions or concerns you would like to discuss with your healthcare provider

FAQ

Related Services

• Need prescription refills? Pharmasave
• Need a family physician? Family Practice