According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1 in 10 people have diabetes, and, unfortunately, 1 in 5 don’t even know they do. With so much of the population being affected by this disease, receiving the proper care and treatment is important. Dr. Philip Rabito is a leading endocrinologist and diabetes doctor in New York City, NY. He has over 20 years of experience in minimizing complications from diabetes by promoting lifestyle changes and optimizing medical management.
What is Type 2 Diabetes?
This is a complex condition in which blood sugar, or glucose levels, are elevated due to resistance to insulin and insufficiently low insulin levels.
Type 2 diabetes has a strong genetic component but is also closely associated with being overweight and sedentary. Poorly controlled Type 2 Diabetes can lead to eye, kidney, and nerve damage, including blindness, dialysis, and amputation. Type 2 diabetics are also at higher risk for heart attack and stroke. Therefore, it is imperative that other cardiovascular risk factors, such as high blood pressure and cholesterol, are treated quickly and effectively. Type 2 diabetes is best managed by endocrinologists through intensive lifestyle counseling, nutritional optimization, and pharmacologic treatment, as needed.
What is Type 1 Diabetes?
In this condition, the cells of the pancreas responsible for producing insulin are destroyed by an autoimmune process, leaving the patient dependent on insulin for life. As in type 2, type 1 diabetics are at risk for eye, kidney, and neurologic dysfunction. Type 1 diabetics are managed with intense lifestyle modification, nutrition counseling, and insulin administration.
Dr. Philip Rabito is an endocrinologist in New York City, NY, with specialized training in managing type 1 diabetes. In addition to his background in nutrition, Dr. Rabito has expertise in various insulin delivery modalities and continuous glucose monitoring systems, which are invaluable for optimizing care.
What Signs and Symptoms Characterize Diabetes?
The signs and symptoms of type 1 and type 2 diabetes can be similar and are largely referable to high blood sugar, seen in both conditions. They include the following:
- Increased urination
- Increased thirst
- Increased hunger
- Blurred vision
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fatigue
- Irritability
- Frequent infections
- Poor wound healing
- Tingling or numbness in toes and fingers
As mentioned, a large portion of the population is unaware they have diabetes, which can lead to irreparable damage to important organ systems. That’s why if you notice you are displaying any of these symptoms, it’s important to contact us right away.
Why Should You See an Endocrinologist for Diabetes?
Endocrinologists specialize in treating diabetes. People with diabetes who are managed by endocrinologists have better long-term outcomes, including improved sugar control and a lower risk of diabetic complications. The paradigm for treating Type 2 Diabetes has shifted in recent years. Newer classes of medications are now available and proven to reduce cardiovascular and kidney disease and promote weight loss in diabetics. Endocrinologists are most knowledgeable about the risks, benefits, and uses of these advanced treatment options and are best equipped to develop a comprehensive and personalized plan to manage diabetes.
With expertise in diabetes and nutrition, Dr. Philip Rabito will optimize care in diabetic patients and minimize the risk of developing full-blown diabetes in patients with prediabetes.
How Do You Diagnose Diabetes?
Your doctor can diagnose diabetes, prediabetes, and gestational diabetes using blood tests. Our office also conducts Carotid Duplex and Lower Extremity Tests. A Carotid Ultrasound uses sound waves to check your Carotid Arteries for narrow or blocked areas as these supply blood to the brain. An Ankle Brachial Index test is a non-invasive way to check for Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD). These will also help in diagnosing other health concerns.
Prediabetes
This is an often under-diagnosed condition in which the blood sugar levels are elevated but not enough to meet the criteria for type 2 diabetes.
Dr. Philip Rabito is a diabetes doctor in New York City, NY, with specialized training in the treatment of type 1 diabetes, type 2 diabetes, and prediabetes. He provides management and monitoring through various insulin delivery modalities and continuous glucose monitoring systems, which are invaluable for the optimization of care. Contact our office today to learn more about managing diabetes with Philip Rabito, MD.
Schedule Your Diabetic Treatment Consultation in NYC
To schedule an appointment for diabetic treatment in NYC or a consultation with a specialist, please call us at 877.703.3775 or fill out an online contact form, and our office will be in touch with you. Thank you for choosing Dr. Philip Rabito in New York City, NY - we look forward to hearing from you!