Diabetes
-
- Tweet
Paul D. Orr, MD
Family Practice located in Claremont, CA
Since there’s no cure for diabetes, it’s important to consult a primary care provider to help you manage the condition and its symptoms. Dr. Paul Orr provides ongoing care for this chronic disease and helps you slow its progression. Anytime you notice changes or worry your medication isn’t working, you can call on Dr. Orr. Use the online scheduler or call Paul D. Orr, M.D. in Claremont, California, to set up an appointment.
Diabetes Q & A
What is diabetes?
Diabetes is a condition in which your pancreas doesn’t produce enough insulin, or your body doesn’t respond to insulin effectively. Without proper insulin involvement, too much blood sugar accumulates in your bloodstream after you eat.
Diabetes appears in one of three forms:
- Type 1 diabetes: your pancreas doesn’t produce insulin; usually appears during childhood
- Type 2 diabetes: your pancreas doesn’t produce enough insulin or your body can’t process it right; usually occurs later in adulthood
- Gestational diabetes: diabetes that appears during pregnancy and typically disappears afterward
What complications can diabetes cause?
Serious complications can result when your blood sugar levels stay elevated. Diabetes increases your risk of:
- Heart disease
- Stroke
- Kidney disease
- Nerve damage
- Vision problems
How do you treat diabetes?
Dr. Orr incorporates medication, blood sugar monitoring, exercise, and dietary changes into your diabetic treatment plan. All of these strategies help keep your blood glucose levels under control.
Medication
If you have Type 2 diabetes, you might need medications like metformin to help your body process insulin. If your body doesn’t make enough insulin, you may need to use injections or an insulin pump.
Blood sugar monitoring
Dr. Orr recommends a blood glucose meter if you have diabetes. He has you monitor your blood sugar levels at certain times during the day to help you decipher your body’s response to food and insulin. He can also modify your treatment if your levels stray too far outside the normal range.
Exercise
Physical activity helps your body process insulin much more efficiently and reduces your overall risk of disease. Many people are able to reduce or stop taking their medications once they start working out, so it’s important to work closely with Dr. Orr when you implement an exercise plan.
Dietary changes
Since your food choices have a direct impact on your blood sugar levels, Dr. Orr can help you make better choices. He can also refer you to a nutritionist for more specialized meal planning and advice.
If you’re looking for a doctor to help you manage your diabetes, reach out to Dr. Orr for an appointment online or over the phone.
