WHAT IS DIABETES?

Diabetes is a group of metabolic diseases that affect the way the body uses blood sugar or glucose. This sugar is vital to good health because it is the body's main source of fuel. Normally, glucose is able to enter cells because of the action of insulin, a hormone secreted by the pancreas. Insulin acts like a key to unlock microscopic doors that allow glucose into the body's cells. But in diabetes, this process is disrupted. Instead of being transported into cells, glucose accumulates in the bloodstream and is eventually excreted in the urine, causing a number of health complications. This most often occurs either because the body doesn't produce enough insulin or because the cells do not respond to insulin properly.

WHAT IS PREDIABETES?

Prediabetes is characterized by blood glucose levels that are higher than normal yet not high enough to be considered diabetes. It is generally considered a warning sign. If left untreated, many patients with prediabetes will develop type 2 diabetes within 10 years. As with diabetes, prediabetes increases the risk of heart disease and stroke, as well as a variety of other medical conditions.

If you have been diagnosed with diabetes or prediabetes, the first step is to educate yourself. Don’t let diabetes prevent you from leading a healthy, productive life. Our diabetes specialists stand ready to assist you, no matter what your concerns. We offer:

• Diet and exercise programs
• Cooking classes
• Blood sugar monitoring and management
• Weight loss programs
• Blood pressure control
• Wound management, including Hyperbaric Oxygen Treatment
• Vision care (early diagnosis and treatment of diabetic retinopathy including laser surgery)
• Skin and nerve care
• Erectile dysfunction treatment
• Renal dialysis and kidney care
• Safe needle disposal

Most insurers, including Medicare, cover Diabetic Care services. Let Coast Plaza help you control your disease before it controls you. If you have questions or concerns about your blood glucose management or services offered by our Diabetes Treatment Program, please call us at (562) 868-3751, extension 2062 or (562) 929-2777.

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Advanced Treatment

The Facts
Types of Diabetes
Risk Factors
Symptoms and Diagnosis
Complications
Prevention
Weight-Loss Programs