Internal Medicine & Diabetology

The Department of Internal Medicine at SSB Heart and Multispecialty Hospital is renowned for its exhaustive approach to managing a wide range of medical conditions, mainly focusing on infectious diseases and metabolic disorders such as diabetes, high blood pressure, thyroid diseases, and high cholesterol. Led by a team of experienced physicians, this department is dedicated to providing top-notch healthcare services with a strong emphasis on exclusive treatment plans and patient education.

Diabetes, a chronic metabolic disorder characterised by elevated blood sugar levels, is a significant area of expertise within the Internal Medicine and Diabetology unit at SSB Hospital. The prevalence of diabetes worldwide has been on the rise, making it crucial for healthcare institutions like SSB Hospital to have specialised care teams and facilities to manage this condition effectively.

The team of physicians at SSB Hospital’s Internal Medicine department is well-equipped to diagnose and treat diabetes exhaustively. They make use of advanced tools and techniques for diagnosis to assess patients’ blood sugar levels, monitor their overall health status, and tailor treatment plans according to a person’s needs. From type 1 diabetes, which requires insulin therapy, to type 2 diabetes, managed through lifestyle adjustments and medications, the hospital’s approach is patient-centric and holistic.

One key aspect of diabetes management at SSB Hospital is the role of a dedicated diabetic educator. This professional works closely with diabetic patients, empowering them with knowledge about their condition. They also help by guiding them towards making positive changes in their lifestyle habits. The diabetic educator plays a crucial role in ensuring that patients understand the importance of blood sugar control, regular monitoring, medication adherence, and the prevention of diabetes-related problems.

In addition to diabetes care, the Internal Medicine team at SSB Hospital also specialises in managing other metabolic diseases. High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a common condition. But it can lead to serious health problems if not managed effectively. The physicians in this department are skilled in diagnosing hypertension, prescribing appropriate medications, and advising patients on lifestyle adjustments such as dietary changes, exercise routines, and stress management techniques.

Thyroid diseases, including hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism, are another area of expertise within the Internal Medicine unit. These conditions can notably impact patients’ overall well-being, affecting metabolism, energy levels, and other bodily functions. The team at SSB Hospital conducts thorough assessments, including thyroid function tests, imaging studies, and clinical evaluations, to determine the best course of treatment for each patient.

High cholesterol, a significant risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, is also managed effectively by the Internal Medicine team. Through lipid profile assessments, dietary counselling, and medication management, patients with high cholesterol receive complete care aimed at reducing their risk of heart related problems.

The Internal Medicine and Diabetology department at SSB Heart and Multispecialty Hospital is committed to providing notable care for patients with a wide range of infectious and metabolic diseases.

What is the importance of Internal Medicine in a hospital?

Internal Medicine plays a pivotal role in a hospital setting for several reasons:

• Complete Care: Internal Medicine physicians at SSB are trained to diagnose and treat a variety
  of adult health issues. This can range from common illnesses to complex medical conditions. They provide
  complete and integrated care that addresses patients’ overall health and well-being.
• Primary Care: Internal Medicine often serves as the first point of contact for patients seeking medical care. Internists are trained to manage a broad spectrum of health concerns. And they coordinate with specialists when necessary, making them essential for primary care services.
• Chronic Disease Management:
  Many chronic diseases fall under the purview of Internal Medicine. This includes diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, and thyroid disorders. Managing these conditions effectively is crucial for improving patients’ quality of life.
• Preventive Care:
  Internal Medicine emphasises preventive Medicine. This includes routine screenings, vaccinations, lifestyle counselling, and health education. These efforts aim to prevent diseases, detect issues early, and promote healthier lifestyles among patients.
• Coordination of Care: Internists often act as coordinators of care for patients with complex medical needs. They collaborate with specialists, nurses, therapists, and other doctors to ensure constant quality of care.
• Hospital-Based Care: Doctors specialising in Internal Medicine play an important role in hospital settings. They provide care to hospitalised patients with acute medical conditions. They manage chronic illnesses during hospital stays and coordinate post-discharge care plans.
• Diagnostic Expertise: Internists are skilled in diagnostic reasoning, utilising medical history, physical exams, lab tests, imaging studies, and other tools to accurately diagnose and treat a wide variety of medical conditions.
• Research and Education: Many Internal Medicine physicians are involved in medical research. They contribute to advancements in healthcare knowledge and practices. They also play a significant role in educating medical students, residents, and fellow doctors.

Who all are more prone to diabetes?

Several factors can contribute to a person’s risk of developing diabetes. Here are some key groups that are more prone to diabetes:

• Family History: People with a family history of diabetes are at higher risk. Having a family member with diabetes increases the likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes. Genetics and shared lifestyle factors may contribute to this risk.
• Age: The risk of diabetes increases with age. Ageing is linked with decreased insulin sensitivity and changes in metabolic function. This contributes to higher diabetes prevalence in older adults.
• Obesity: Obesity is one of the major risk factor for diabetes, especially type 2 diabetes. Overweight as well as obese people are at higher risk of developing insulin resistance. This is a key factor in type 2 diabetes development.
• Lack of physical activity: Lack of regular physical activity is also associated with an increased risk of diabetes. The World Health Organisation (WHO) notes that sedentary lifestyles contribute to weight gain, impaired glucose metabolism, and higher diabetes prevalence.
• Unhealthy Diet: Certain diets can contribute to diabetes risk. This includes, food that are high in processed foods, sugar, and unhealthy fats. A balanced diet plays an integral role in diabetes prevention.
• Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions can increase diabetes risk. This includes polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and prediabetes. People with PCOS have higher insulin resistance. In contrast, prediabetes indicates elevated blood sugar levels. This may progress to diabetes without intervention.

What are some of the common symptoms of diabetes?

Here are some common symptoms of diabetes:

• Frequent Urination: Excessive urination, especially at night (nocturia), is a common symptom of diabetes. This occurs due to the kidneys working overtime to filter and absorb excess glucose from the blood.
• Increased Thirst: Excessive thirst often accompanies frequent urination in diabetes. Dehydration from increased urination can trigger a feeling of constant thirst. This happens because the body tries to replenish lost fluids.
• Unexplained Weight Loss: Despite eating normally or even more than usual, people with diabetes may experience unexplained weight loss. This is due to the body’s inability to properly use glucose for energy. This leads to the breakdown of muscle and fat tissues.
• Fatigue: Diabetes can cause fatigue and make one feel weak. This is due to inefficient glucose usage by cells for energy production. High blood sugar levels can also disrupt sleep patterns, contributing to daytime tiredness.
• Increased Hunger: Some people with diabetes may experience increased hunger despite eating regularly. This occurs when cells are deprived of glucose, prompting the body to signal for more food intake.
• Slow Wound Healing: Diabetes can also impair the body’s ability to heal wounds and infections. High blood sugar levels can further damage blood vessels and nerves. This leads to poor circulation and delayed wound healing.
• Blurred Vision: Fluctuations in one’s blood sugar levels can affect the shape of the eye’s lens, causing temporary blurred vision. Chronically high blood sugar levels can also damage the blood vessels in the retina. This will lead to diabetic retinopathy and vision problems.
• Numbness or Tingling: Diabetes-related nerve damage can cause numbness and tingling. It can also cause burning sensations, especially in the hands, feet, or legs. This condition, known as peripheral neuropathy, is common in people with uncontrolled diabetes.
• Recurrent Infections: Diabetes can weaken the immune system, making people more susceptible to infections. Common infections in diabetic people include urinary tract infections, skin infections, and yeast infections.
• Mood Changes: Fluctuations in blood sugar levels can affect mood and cognitive function. Some people with diabetes may experience irritability, mood swings, or difficulty focusing. This happens when the blood sugar levels are too high or too low.

FAQs

What is diabetes?

Diabetes is a chronic metabolic disorder. It is marked by an elevation in one’s blood sugar levels. It occurs in two conditions. One wherein the body either doesn’t produce enough insulin (a hormone that regulates blood sugar). Second where the body cannot effectively make use of the insulin it produces.

What are the types of diabetes?

There are two main types of diabetes. They are type 1 and 2 diabetes. Type 1 diabetes is often diagnosed in childhood. It is caused by the immune system attacking insulin-producing cells. Type 2 diabetes develops primarily in adults and is often related to lifestyle factors. There’s also gestational diabetes, which occurs during pregnancy.

What are the risk factors for developing diabetes?

Risk factors for diabetes are many. They may include family history, obesity, and lack of physical activity. It also includes an unhealthy diet, age, and a history of gestational diabetes or prediabetes.

What are the symptoms of diabetes?

Some common symptoms of diabetes include increased thrist, frequent urination and unexplained weight loss. It also includes fatigue, increased hunger, and slow wound healing. It may also include blurred vision and numbness or tingling in the hands or feet. However, not everyone with diabetes experiences symptoms.

How is diabetes diagnosed?

Diabetes is diagnosed through blood tests. The test measures the blood sugar levels. The main tests used are the fasting blood glucose test, oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), and haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) test. These tests help determine if blood sugar levels are within normal range or indicate diabetes or prediabetes.

What is the treatment for diabetes?

The treatment for diabetes depends on various factors. But majorly it depends on the type and severity of the condition. It often includes lifestyle adjustments. This includes a healthy and protien rich diet, regular exercise, weight management, and monitoring blood sugar levels. In addition, medications may be prescribed.