Diabetes is a common health condition that affects how your body turns food into energy. Some people experience noticeable symptoms, while others may have diabetes or prediabetes without realizing it.

The good news is that screening can help identify diabetes early, and with the right care and support, diabetes can be successfully managed.

At Eastern Iowa Health Center, your healthcare team is here to help you understand your risk, know your numbers and develop a plan that supports your health.

Could I Have Diabetes?

Diabetes doesn’t always cause noticeable symptoms, especially in its early stages. That’s one reason regular checkups and recommended health screenings are so important.

When symptoms do occur, they may include:

• Increased thirst

• Frequent urination

• Increased hunger

• Fatigue

• Blurred vision

• Tingling or numbness in the hands or feet

• Sores that are slow to heal

• Unexplained weight loss

Having one or more of these symptoms does not necessarily mean you have diabetes. Your healthcare provider can evaluate your symptoms and determine whether testing is appropriate.

Who Should Be Screened for Diabetes?

Your provider may recommend diabetes screening based on your age, health history and individual risk factors.

You may have a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes if you have certain risk factors, including a family history of diabetes, overweight or obesity, high blood pressure, a history of gestational diabetes or other health conditions associated with increased diabetes risk.

A simple blood test can help your provider determine whether your blood sugar is within a healthy range or whether additional testing is needed.

Talk with your Eastern Iowa Health Center provider about your individual risk and how often you should be screened.

I’ve Been Diagnosed With Diabetes. Now What?

A diabetes diagnosis can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to figure everything out at once—or on your own.

Many people with diabetes live active, healthy lives. Managing diabetes is about understanding your body, monitoring your health and working with your healthcare team to develop a plan that works for you.

Depending on your individual needs, your diabetes care plan may include:

• Regular visits with your healthcare provider

• Monitoring your blood sugar

• Medication or insulin when appropriate

• Nutrition guidance

• Regular physical activity

• Blood pressure and cholesterol management

• Routine lab testing

• Regular eye and foot care

• Other preventive screenings

Your needs may change over time, so staying connected with your healthcare team is an important part of managing diabetes.

Why Is Managing Diabetes Important?

Over time, blood sugar levels that remain too high can affect different parts of the body.

Diabetes can increase the risk of health complications involving the:

• Heart and blood vessels

• Kidneys

• Eyes and vision

• Nerves

• Feet and lower limbs

Managing blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol and keeping up with recommended preventive care can help reduce the risk of complications.

Your healthcare provider can help you understand which numbers and screenings are most important for you.

Small Changes Can Support Your Health

Managing diabetes doesn’t mean you have to completely change your life overnight.

Small, sustainable changes can make a meaningful difference. Eating nutritious foods, being physically active, taking medications as prescribed, keeping appointments and monitoring your health are all ways you can take an active role in your care.

Your plan should be realistic for your life, your health and your goals.

We’re Here to Help

Whether you’re concerned about your risk for diabetes, need to be screened or are already managing diabetes, Eastern Iowa Health Center is here to support you.

Our primary care team can help you understand your health, develop an individualized care plan and coordinate additional services when needed.