Should I see a diabetes doctor periodically to keep other diabetic symptoms and complications in check?
Like many of you, by following the "tool chest" I've managed my blood sugar splendidly. I joke that I now probably have the best blood sugar of anyone in the room! BUT, I think we've agreed that "reversed" just means that we've managed our diabetes. In other words, I still have diabetes, and if I eat things that turn in to sugar, I'll be right back where I started. So, my question is this - should I see a diabetes doctor periodically to keep other diabetic symptoms and complications in check? I'm early (1 year) into my diagnosis and haven't yet experienced symptoms like circulation problems in my toes, vision issues, etc. And those that I did have - joint pain, frequent urination, and headaches are GONE. So - is the rule that less than 20g of carbs a day keeps the diabetes doctor away? Or should I consider finding one? (By the way, I've been seeing a functional NP and still getting regular bloodwork - not going "docless." - just wondering about diabetes specialists.
COMMENTS:
Rory Marshall
Elliott, you wrote: “should I see a diabetes doctor periodically to keep other diabetic symptoms and complications in check?” I’d suggest that you see a family practice doctor or a nurse practitioner on a regular basis. I don’t think that it’s necessary for you to see an endocrinologist. That said, I do believe that, in addition to the family practice nurse practitioner, it would be advisable, for all diabetics, to have an annual dilated-pupil eye exam to look for any developing retinopathy. And, a periodic visit to a foot doctor, a podiatrist, would not be a bad idea. Beyond those, most people will be fine, in my non-doctor opinion. With periodic lab testing of blood and urine, your nurse practitioner should be able to stay on top of things for you.
COMMENTS:
Rory Marshall
Elliott, you wrote: “should I see a diabetes doctor periodically to keep other diabetic symptoms and complications in check?” I’d suggest that you see a family practice doctor or a nurse practitioner on a regular basis. I don’t think that it’s necessary for you to see an endocrinologist. That said, I do believe that, in addition to the family practice nurse practitioner, it would be advisable, for all diabetics, to have an annual dilated-pupil eye exam to look for any developing retinopathy. And, a periodic visit to a foot doctor, a podiatrist, would not be a bad idea. Beyond those, most people will be fine, in my non-doctor opinion. With periodic lab testing of blood and urine, your nurse practitioner should be able to stay on top of things for you.