Even some mild symptoms can mean you might have diabetes!
Happy National Diabetes Month! This November, MUSC Health — Endocrinology is trying to raise awareness about diabetes and working to improve the care of those affected by this disease. As of 2024, 38.4 million Americans are labeled as having diabetes, with 8.7 million undiagnosed. In South Carolina, 561,200 adults have been diagnosed with diabetes, with 25,000 receiving a new diagnosis each year. Early detection and treatment of diabetes mellitus can prevent further diabetes-related complications. That’s why it’s important to seek the right health care provider to help you. Recently, MUSC Health — Endocrinology was awarded the National Diabetes Excellence Award. The award represents a passion for educating the Pee Dee region about this disease and the impact it has on our community.
Common symptoms of diabetes can include frequent urination, excessive thirst or hunger, extreme fatigue, blurry vision and/or tingling or numbness in the hands and feet. Sometimes, symptoms may be so mild that patients may not be aware until they have a blood test. Risk factors for diabetes include family history, obesity, poor diet, lack of exercise and other various comorbidities. MUSC Health — Endocrinology specializes in working with patients diagnosed with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes and gestational diabetes. Prevention of various complications associated with these diagnoses, including but not limited to diseases of the kidneys, heart, eyes and nerves, is crucial to each patient’s health and well-being.
When coming to the clinic, you should expect a comprehensive evaluation involving bloodwork, questions about your health and family history and a physical exam. We will also conduct an A1C lab test using your blood to determine a patient’s average blood sugar level over the past three months. This allows the provider to get a better understanding of the severity of a possible diabetes diagnosis. Additional lab work will provide more information about common risk factors, including high cholesterol, hypertension, kidney disease and other diseases. Your provider will complete a thorough review of your diet, medications and blood sugar trends, as well as any associated symptoms or concerns. In addition to care, patients will receive any necessary referrals to specialists, such as an ophthalmologist or podiatrist.
If you or someone you know has recently been diagnosed with diabetes or are dealing with uncontrolled blood sugar levels and/or complications due to diabetes, MUSC Health — Endocrinology is prepared to help you. Diabetes is a complex disease that requires a specific treatment plan for each patient. The treatment plan could consist of monitoring medications, education about proper diet or blood sugar monitoring. Your health care provider at MUSC Health — Endocrinology is fully trained to treat patients affected by diabetes of all types and severities.
Ribal Al Aridi, M.D., and Hailey New, PA-C, are proud to provide expert care for those with diabetes. Dr. Al Aridi is board-certified in internal medicine, endocrinology, diabetes and metabolism. She is also experienced in treating patients with various hormonal diseases, such as diabetes. New has a true passion for building relationships with her patients and encouraging them to be active participants in their health journey.
For more information, please call MUSC Health – Endocrinology at MUSC Health Florence Medical Center at 843-679-4221 or go to MUSCHealth.org/Florence.
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