Diabetes

Diabetes is a serious chronic health issue that affects millions of Americans. At Texas Premier Physicians P.A., residents of Houston, Texas, and the surrounding region rely on Bita Pour Jafari, MD, ABAARM, for diabetes prevention, screening, and treatment services. To book your one-on-one appointment, spend a few moments on the online booking page, or call to speak with a member of the administrative staff.

How does diabetes develop?

Diabetes develops when you aren’t able to convert food into energy properly. Each time you eat, a portion of that food is converted into glucose, a form of sugar. Glucose fuels your cells, but for that to happen, you need a specific hormone called insulin to “unlock” your cells and allow glucose to enter.

Your pancreas usually creates all the insulin you need. But for some people, an autoimmune condition attacks the pancreas, preventing normal insulin production (type 1 diabetes). Type 2 diabetes is more common and linked to lifestyle. People with type 2 diabetes either don’t create enough insulin or can’t make effective use of their insulin. 

This causes glucose to build up within your bloodstream and also robs your cells of necessary nourishment. Some people develop type 2 diabetes during pregnancy (gestational diabetes), which often resolves after childbirth. 

What are some of the symptoms of diabetes?

It’s important to note that not everyone with diabetes will encounter a clear set of symptoms. When symptoms are present, they might include:

• Fatigue
• Excessive thirst
• Frequent urination
• Unexplained weight loss
• Sores or cuts that are slow to heal
• Numbness or tingling in hands or feet

Routine screening is the only way to fully understand your diabetes risk level and status. That’s why screening is part of annual physicals and other preventive health visits. 

How do I get screened for diabetes?

Diabetes has wide-ranging effects on your health and wellness. It’s a serious disease that can lead to numerous negative outcomes, including early death. Screening is essential, and can not only determine if you have diabetes but also if you have an elevated risk of developing the disease.

A simple blood test checks your glucose levels, which Dr. Jafari uses to determine if you have diabetes or could be considered to have prediabetes. Most people with prediabetes can avoid developing diabetes by making meaningful and sustainable changes to their lifestyle, beginning with diet and exercise. 

If you have diabetes, Dr. Jafari will explain your treatment options, which include medications and supplemental insulin. 

To schedule a visit to learn more about how to prevent diabetes, screening, or various treatment methods, call Texas Premier Physicians P.A. today, or try the easy online scheduling tool.