Navigating Diabetes: Expert Insights and Management Strategies at Harmony Thyroid, Endocrinology and Diabetes Centre

Approximately 30% of individuals in Singapore are prone to developing diabetes in their lifetime. This chronic disease could affect eyesight, kidney function, and wound healing and lead to an increased risk of heart attack and stroke. Early detection of diabetes or a pre-diabetic state is critical in preventing complications.

Maintaining glucose levels within the normal range could halt all these complications and help individuals with diabetes achieve a healthy life. Medical management is targeted to achieve glucose levels in the blood within normal levels without causing distressing low sugar levels (hypoglycaemic episodes). At Harmony Thyroid Endocrinology and Diabetes Centre, an understanding between the doctor and patient is crucial to achieving realistic goals. By discussing the disease, complications, and how to navigate around the fear and frustration surrounding diabetes, our endocrinologist will plan effective management strategies that help individuals with diabetes cope better.

Navigating Diabetes

Diabetes is one of the most common chronic conditions worldwide. It is a life-long metabolic disorder characterised by elevated blood glucose levels. It results from the body's inability to produce enough insulin (Type 1 Diabetes/Insulin-dependent Diabetes) or effectively use insulin (Type 2 Diabetes/Insulin-resistant Diabetes), a hormone crucial for regulating blood sugar.

What are the Types of Diabetes?

Type 1 Diabetes:

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition in which the immune system destroys the pancreas's ability to produce insulin Hormone.

This condition is often diagnosed at an early age and makes them completely Insulin-dependent.

Type 2 Diabetes:

Type 2 diabetes is characterised by insulin resistance thereby our body cannot utilise glucose despite an overworking pancreas and a gradual decline in insulin production by the pancreas

It usually develops in adulthood; however, we see more and more younger people developing this condition.

Obesity, lack of exercise, and a family history of diabetes put you at higher risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.

The mainstay of treatment is nonpharmacological lifestyle changes (e.g., a balanced diet and regular exercise), oral medications, and, in some cases, insulin therapy.

Gestational Diabetes:

Gestational diabetes occurs during pregnancy when the pancreas cannot cope with increased metabolic demands caused by hyperglycemia. These patients are at a 2 to 3-fold risk of developing diabetes in the future.

If not correctly managed throughout the pregnancy, this can lead to complications during delivery and baby (e.g. significant weight for gestation and risk of future diabetes)

What are the Symptoms of Diabetes?

Recognise the common signs of diabetes, such as increased thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, and fatigue. Early detection and intervention are crucial in preventing complications.

How can Diabetes be Diagnosed and Monitored? 

Those with diabetes need to consult an Endocrinologist for a diagnosis and attend regular follow-up appointments to monitor their chronic condition. Blood glucose tests, HbA1c levels, and other assessments are pivotal in managing the condition effectively.

Senior Consultant Endocrinologist Dr Vikram Sonawane and his Team at Harmony are committed to supporting you on your journey to understanding, managing, and thriving despite diabetes. Harmony is part of the Beyond Medical Group, a collective of medical specialists that has also been ranked as one of Singapore’s Top 100 Fastest-Growing Companies for 2024. For more in-depth information, feel free to book a consultation with Dr Vikram to explore Harmony’s comprehensive services and stay informed on the latest developments in diabetes care.

Harmony Thyroid, Endocrinology and Diabetes Centre Website:
https://www.endocrineharmony.sg/

‌Dr Vikram Sonawane Profile: https://www.endocrineharmony.sg/dr-vikram/

Appointment Line: (65) 9834 9533

Email: info@endocrineharmony.sg