Chronic Disease Management

Dr. Jean-Francois Yale, MD, CSPQ, FRCPC, Endocrinologist, creates a story based description on the differences between Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes.
Dr. Peter Lin, MD, CCFP, Family Physician, talks about Diabetes symptoms and the importance of good blood sugar control.
video conference
diabetes

Quiz: Do You Understand Diabetes?

Test your knowledge by answering the following questions:

Questions
True
False
1

You only need to check blood sugar levels if you have type 1 diabetes.

Explanation:
Blood glucose monitoring is an important part of any diabetes management plan. If you have diabetes, it’s important to check your blood sugar levels as prescribed by your doctor.
2

An A1C test measures the glucose (blood sugar) in your blood.

Explanation:
During visits with your primary care provider or endocrinologist, he or she will perform an A1C test to measure the glucose (blood sugar) in your blood by checking hemoglobin. Your physician may also take blood or urine samples to assess kidney, liver and thyroid function.
3

Diabetes medication is not a part of type 1 diabetes treatment.

Explanation:
Type 1 diabetes treatment includes insulin, blood sugar monitoring, diet and exercise changes and diabetes medication.
4

Some people with type 2 diabetes need insulin.

Explanation:
Type 2 diabetes treatment includes blood sugar monitoring, diet and exercise changes, diabetes medication and insulin.
5

Diabetes complications can lead to kidney disease.

Explanation:
It’s essential to see your healthcare team regularly for diabetes monitoring, especially as diabetes complications can lead to diabetic retinopathy, kidney disease (nephropathy) and diabetic neuropathy.

Check off items that you want to discuss with your healthcare provider

  • Type 1 diabetes symptoms include frequent urination, increased thirst, fatigue and blurred vision.
  • During visits with your primary care provider or endocrinologist, he or she will perform an A1C test to measure the glucose (blood sugar) in your blood by checking hemoglobin. Your physician may also take blood or urine samples to assess kidney, liver and thyroid function.
  • Type 1 diabetes treatment includes lifelong insulin therapy, diet and exercise changes and blood glucose monitoring.
  • There have been new advances in continuous glucose monitoring. Some people use a sensor inserted under the skin called a continuous glucose monitor (CGM), while others use flash glucose monitoring to get a blood glucose reading without sticking their finger.
  • It’s essential to see your healthcare team regularly, especially as type 1 diabetes complications can lead to serious problems with your heart, nerves, eyes, kidneys and blood vessels.