Diabetes

High blood sugar is common and manageable

Senior Woman Checking Blood Glucose Level on an App - stock photo
A senior aged Indigenous Navajo woman, checking her blood glucose level with a smartphone application.

Our approach to diabetes care

Diabetes is a complex condition that can significantly impact your overall health if not well-managed. Our experienced endocrinologists will work closely with you on a treatment plan that's personalized for your needs, concerns and goals.

Together, we'll strive to keep your blood sugar levels in a healthy range, preventing complications and helping you live a full and active life.

Signs and symptoms of diabetes

Diabetes can affect different parts of your body and cause a wide range of symptoms, including:

  • increased thirst
  • frequent urination
  • increased hunger
  • unexplained weight loss
  • fatigue
  • blurry vision
  • slow-healing infections, cuts and bruises

Diabetes can contribute to other health problems, including:

  • heart disease
  • stroke
  • kidney disease
  • vision loss or blindness
  • nerve damage
  • amputation

When to seek care for diabetes

Ignoring unexplained changes in your health can have serious consequences. If you have any of the symptoms above, it’s crucial to see your doctor right away.

Early detection and intervention can prevent severe complications and improve your quality of life.

Our steps to a diagnosis

The diagnostic process for diabetes involves a few simple steps:

  • physical exam: We'll begin by discussing your symptoms and performing a thorough physical evaluation.
  • blood tests: We'll order blood tests to measure your blood sugar levels and rule out other potential conditions.
  • diagnostic criteria: Your doctor will diagnose diabetes based on your blood test results and the American Diabetes Association's criteria.

Since the gestational form of diabetes may not cause symptoms, a glucose tolerance test is part of routine pregnancy care.

Our treatment options

Diabetes affects everyone differently. We'll work with you on the most appropriate treatment. Our team will assess your symptoms, risks and goals and create a personalized care plan.

Recommended treatments may include:

  • Healthy lifestyle changes: A healthy diet, regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight and quitting smoking can significantly improve your blood sugar control and prevent complications.
  • Medication: A variety of oral and injectable medications are available to treat diabetes. Your doctor will work with you to find the best medication to meet your needs.
  • Insulin therapy: Insulin is a vital hormone that helps the body use glucose for energy. Individuals with type 1 diabetes require daily insulin. People with type 2 diabetes may need insulin if other medications alone don’t control their blood sugar.
  • Diabetes education: Understanding how to manage diabetes is critical to diabetes care. We offer education programs to teach you how to manage your condition and live a healthy life.
  • Foot care: People with diabetes often experience foot problems, such as nerve damage (neuropathy) and poor circulation. Regular foot care is essential, including comfortable, well-fitting shoes and daily checks for sores or injuries.
  • Eye care: Diabetes can damage the blood vessels in the retina, leading to diabetic retinopathy and potential vision loss. Regular eye exams are crucial for early detection and treatment to preserve your vision.

If you have any questions or concerns about your diabetes care, please don't hesitate to consult with your doctor.

Tests and treatments

Medical tests include:

  • A1c test
  • albumin urine test
  • blood glucose test
  • C-peptide test
  • home blood sugar test
  • ketone test
  • oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT)

Meet our experts

Dozens of board-certified endocrinologists and diabetes educators supported by a compassionate, accommodating staff — all here for you.

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Why choose WellSpan for diabetes care?

We prioritize your needs to deliver compassionate, patient-centered care. Our team will work closely with you to manage your condition and improve your health and well-being.

Experienced, multidisciplinary team

Our team of endocrinologists and other specialists collaborate to provide holistic diabetes care, including diabetic foot care, diabetic eye care and support services.

Diabetes education program

We provide a free diabetes education program for individuals with type 1 diabetes, prediabetes and gestational diabetes. Classes taught by Certified Diabetes Educators® on nutrition, exercise and medication management will empower you to effectively manage your condition.

National recognition

The National Committee for Quality Assurance recognized WellSpan as a patient-centered specialty practice underscoring our commitment to delivering high-quality, patient-focused care.

WellSpan York Hospital and WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital earned “High Performing” recognition from U.S. News & World Report in its 2023-24 Best Hospitals rankings for providing high-quality care for diabetes.

Convenient locations

We have convenient locations across South Central Pennsylvania and offer telemedicine appointments if traveling is a challenge.

Advanced technology

We use state-of-the-art technology to diagnose and treat your diabetes, including continuous glucose monitors, insulin pumps and electronic records accessible to your doctors.