Diabetes Specialist

What is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a metabolic disease that develops when there is too much glucose (sugar) in the blood. Glucose is derived from the foods that we eat, and it plays a very important role in ensuring our bodies get the energy they need to function properly. Normally, the body breaks down food and turns it into glucose and a hormone called insulin changes it into energy that can be used by the cells. In diabetes, the relationship between glucose and insulin breaks down and glucose builds up in the blood. In type I diabetes, the body doesn't produce enough insulin; in type II diabetes, the body makes insulin but doesn't use it properly.

How is Diabetes Related to Heart Health?

Diabetes has been associated with three types of heart disease: coronary artery disease, heart failure and diabetic cardiomyopathy, which causes damage to the structure of the heart and interferes with normal heart function. Diabetes is a major risk factor for heart disease, just like high blood pressure and smoking, and in people who already have heart disease, diabetes can make their disease worse and more difficult to treat. When diabetes is accompanied by other risk factors, the risk for heart disease substantially increases.

How is Diabetes Treated?

At L.A. Heart Specialists, we offer diabetic screening as part of our preventive care services, helping patients determine their risk for developing diabetes so they can make lifestyle changes that may reduce their risks, and also helping people with disease understand how to manage it. The cornerstone of diabetes treatment is regular blood monitoring combined with insulin as needed to ensure a healthy level of blood glucose. If you have diabetes or if you're at risk for developing the disease, we can help you learn how to manage your blood sugar for optimal health.