Who Are Your Healthcare Team Members and Why Are They Important?

Nancy W Barton RN, Fit4d CDE

“One is the lonely number you’ve ever done…” – A quote from the lyrics to “One” by Harry Nilsson. Many people with diabetes feel lonely on the journey, but it doesn’t have to be. Diabetes affects many parts of a person’s life, so having a support team on this journey is extremely beneficial.

It’s important for all people with diabetes to remember it you You are the main team member because you are the only person who knows what you can and willing to do. Diabetes can affect sleep ability, appetite, concentration ability, ability to see and feel, sexual performance, work performance, and more. The list could continue.

There are so many aspects when caution is needed, so it’s great to get some input from people who specialize in each field. Even if your advice is overwhelming and you feel you can’t do it all, be honest and honest with them because that’s the only way they can help you.

So go ahead and create a partnership for better health. Even if you’ve had diabetes for years, things will change. Changes in medication, changes in body, changes in complications, changes in recommendations. Please reach out to us for support! This is a review of what is available.

Your Overall Health with Primary Care Doctor

Many already have primary care physicians (PCPs, family practices, internal Mmedicines). They may have been the ones who diagnosed your diabetes. However, if you don’t have it, we recommend you get it. When you’re looking for a PCP, make sure it’s someone you can talk about openly and has an opinion that you respect. Your primary care physician can coordinate your care by working with you to ensure you reach professionals as needed.

You send your information to your PCP so that you can bring all the puzzle pieces of your health together. Primary care physicians can also prescribe medications to treat diabetes, and perform further tests to see if diabetes caused complications.

Endocrinologists and the endocrine system

Diabetes is one of the diseases of the endocrine system and is part of the endocrine specialist specialist field. You do not need to see an endocrine specialist, but if you have type 1 diabetes or are experiencing problems with controlling your diabetes, your PCP may refer you to. Don’t worry if your PCP refers you, that doesn’t always mean that they can’t treat you, or that your diabetes is out of control, some people prefer you to be managed by an endocrinologist, or others want you to get a second opinion of your treatment plan.

Many diabetics see endocrine specialists every 3-6 months. As they visit frequently, they may feel redundant to see their PCP, and they want to rely solely on their endocrinologist to manage all aspects of their healthcare. If this sounds like you, check with your endocrinologist to make sure they are happy with this role. Many people want to continue PCP in their patients due to non-internal nuclear problems.

Your Diabetes Care with Certified Diabetes Educator (CDE)

Certified Diabetes Educators (CDEs) are healthcare professionals trained in diabetes care and treatment. Their job is to work with you to learn how to care for your diabetes. They can teach you about diabetes and what it means to your body, how to administer your medication, how to test your blood sugar, and what levels mean. Diabetic educators can also talk about nutrition, complications, insulin pumps, and continuous glucose monitors. They can help you shoot and teach you how to have you you Instead of letting your diabetes control you, control your diabetes.

Dietitian/Registered Dietitian and your food

Registered dietitians (RDs) are nutritional training people. Find someone who has experience working with people with diabetes. Portion size and food type can have a major impact on blood glucose control. Being diagnosed with diabetes is not a statement that you will never eat the food you love. That means you need to find a balance that pleases the palette while maintaining blood sugar control. This can be done! Again, don’t forget to be open and honest about what you’re trying to do. It is the only way a nutritionist/nutritionist can help you.

Dentist and your teeth

People with diabetes are at increased risk of developing periodontal disease, tooth decay, ulcers and infections, especially if they are not controlled. People with diabetes also have a special risk of periodontal disease (gingival) disease, which is an infection of the gums and bones. Periodontal disease can lead to painful chewing, difficulty eating, and even tooth loss.

It is recommended to brush and floss your teeth every day and see your dentist every six months.

Your feet with your podiatrist

As a diabetic person, you may have serious foot problems, but you probably don’t feel the pain caused by problems with circulation in your lower limbs and feet. A podiatrist can teach you how to properly care for your feet and help you avoid foot-related complications.

Check your feet daily for amputations, pain, red spots, swelling and infected toenails. If you are struggling to see your feet, you can use a plastic mirror to display them (you don’t want to drop the glass and cut the feet), and you can ask your family or caregiver to help you. If your leg cut, blister, or bruise does not begin to heal after a day, call your doctor immediately. This is because even small pains can become serious problems if not attended properly. Get reports sent to your PCP and endocrinologist (if shown).

Pharmacist and your medication

Pharmacists can be valuable sources of information. Tell them all the medications you are taking so that they can let you know if there are any interactions you may not know. It can also help with counter medications that can be safely taken with prescription medication. Check out Elise Swenson’s FIT4D blog, “Your Pharmacist Can Be Your Diabetes Educator.”

Psychologist/Psychiatrist/Counselor/Social Worker and Your Feelings

When you are diagnosed with diabetes, it is not uncommon to have a shopping bag full of emotions. Some people fear medicine and lifestyle changes. Some fear possible complications. Others are angry or denial. Many people find it beneficial to talk to someone who can help them sort these feelings out. Social workers are different people and can also help you find the resources available to you.

Ophthalmologist/Ophthalmologist/Retinologist and your eyes

The American Diabetes Association recommends that diabetics undergo an expanded eye test each year to check for eye damage. Your eyes are full of tiny tiny blood vessels and diabetes can have a negative effect on them. If this type of injury is arrested early, many new treatments are available to help you maintain your vision. Unfortunately, waiting until your eyesight issues may be too late. Once again, it is important to make sure you are sending reports to your PCP and your endocrinologist (if you see them).

Nephrologist and your kidneys

A nephrologist is a doctor who specializes in kidney diseases. Diabetes can affect renal function, especially when blood glucose levels are not controlled. If your lab results indicate that your kidneys are feeling the effects of your diabetes, your PCP may refer you to a nephrologist for further research to maintain your renal function. Get reports sent to your PCP and endocrinologist (if shown).

Your team and your journey

Overall, diabetic life is full of ups and downs. It’s a bit of a roller coaster, not always in control. But the person who takes care of you and oversees it teeth With your control. In charge! You will be educated. Find a team of medical professionals who will make this ride a little smoother and lonely.

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Photo Credit: Oswaldrooise (Pixa Bay) and public domain photos