Inpatient and outpatient endocrinology services are available at Nacogdoches Medical Center, (NMC) for the treatment of diabetes and other problems of the endocrine system. Education programs teach patients self-care, nutrition and management of their disease. NMC also offers a diabetic support group.

What is Diabetes?

Diabetes occurs when the body does not produce enough insulin or use it correctly. When glucose, your body’s fuel, cannot enter the cells, it builds up in the bloodstream. Over time, high blood glucose levels can damage the heart, blood vessels, kidneys, eyes and nerves. It claims over 150,000 lives a year.

The cause of diabetes is unknown, however genetics, being overweight, lack of exercise, poor nutrition and age are all factors. There is no cure for diabetes, but with early diagnosis, proper treatment and good control, diabetes complications may be prevented.

There are two major types of diabetes. Type 1 Diabetes, or Insulin-Dependent Diabetes Mellitus (IDDM) accounts for 5 to 10 percent of all cases. In Type 1 diabetes the body doesn’t produce insulin. This form begins most often in children and young adults, but can occur in adults of all ages. People with Type 1 diabetes must take insulin daily by injections or through insulin pump therapy. In Type 2 Diabetes, which accounts for 90 to 95 percent of all cases, the body either doesn’t make enough or doesn’t properly use insulin. Either form of diabetes poses substantially higher risks of blindness, kidney failure, leg and foot amputations, heart attacks and strokes.

What Diabetes Is NOT

Diabetes is not an uncontrollable disease. With proper education and self-care, people with diabetes can live healthy productive lives.

The NMC Diabetes Program is:

•           Designed to help you develop the practical self-care skills you need to manage and live with diabetes.

•           Staffed by Registered Nurses and Registered Dietitians with special training in diabetic education.

Are there Others Like Me?

You’re not alone. We offer a monthly support group that meets the first Thursday of each month from 11:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the third floor classroom at Nacogdoches Medical Center.  It’s free and open to the public.  We do ask that you call (936)558-3727 for a reservation due to the large attendance of the group.  Come any time to hear from others who may be going through the same issues as you. For more information on the support group please feel to call us at (936) 558-3727.