Diabetes – Take Charge Today!
Diabetes is a serious disease. Left unmanaged, it can damage many parts of the body, leading to suffering and death. But there is good news: diabetes complications can be prevented or delayed by properly managing blood glucose, blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Eating healthy, taking prescribed medications and being physically active can help lower the risk of complications. Expert care, medications and new technologies help make it easier to manage this disease.
Diabetes Mellitus is currently the seventh leading cause of death in the U.S. and is a major contributing factor to the top six causes of death. It is critical for patients to understand this disease and take an aggressive stance in its treatment. For some, it’s prevention. There are over 150 different medications and combinations available to treat Type 2 diabetes as well as technologies such as continuous glucose monitors and insulin pumps.
In addition to using the right medication, patients need the right care plan to be successful. That is best accomplished as a team. At LECOM Health, that includes endocrinologist Fernando Melaragno, DO, and education specialist Jackie Carlson, RD, LDN, CDCES. Jackie individualizes diabetes education and treatment plans, teaching patients how to manage diabetes, live a healthy lifestyle, stay active, choose healthy foods, reach glucose goals and train on specialized devices.
“During National Diabetes Awareness Month, we want to raise awareness of the risks of not managing diabetes. We light our facility blue, the color chosen to represent Diabetes Awareness Month, to recognize those challenged by the disease. Managing diabetes isn’t easy, and I’m here to provide educational support,” said Jackie.
At LECOM Health, our goal is to prevent or control diabetes so that we decrease complications brought on by the disease, including heart disease, blindness, kidney disease and amputation. We encourage anyone affected by diabetes to learn how they can manage this disease and live a healthier lifestyle.
Talk to your healthcare provider about a referral to meet with Fernando Melaragno, DO, endocrinologist, and Jackie Carlson, RD, LDN, CDCES, education specialist.
To learn more or to schedule an appointment call (814) 868-3488