This article was clinically reviewed by Haley C., FNP.
Introduction
Living with diabetes requires attentive, personalized care—something we’re proud to provide for the LGBTQIA+ community here at FOLX. Our clinicians are experts in comprehensive, judgment-free healthcare, offering virtual visits, ongoing monitoring via lab work and easy to access results in your patient portal, any-time messaging with your care team, and community support to help you manage your diabetes effectively and confidently.
How do I know when I should see a clinician about diabetes?
It's wise to consult with a healthcare provider if you're experiencing symptoms of diabetes such as frequent urination, excessive thirst, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, or blurred vision. Early intervention is key to managing diabetes effectively. If you have a family history of diabetes or other risk factors like high blood pressure, it’s also important to get regular screenings.
If you have never been diagnosed with diabetes but are concerned about your glucose (sugar) levels from a previous lab or just want to get it checked for general health screening, we can help with that too. If you’ve been diagnosed with prediabetes or gestational diabetes in the past, or have other reasons to keep an extra eye, that’s a good reason too. At FOLX, we’re here to support you, whether you're just starting to address your concerns or seeking to transition your ongoing diabetes care from another provider.
What to expect at a diabetes screening or management appointment
Screening for diabetes is often completed by taking a medical history and doing a “physical” (a virtual one in our case!) and completing specific lab tests. A hemoglobin A1c is an easy blood test to screen for your average blood glucose levels over the past 3 months.
If you’re already diagnosed with diabetes, a clinician will go over your medical history, medications, home glucose readings and any previous records you have. We may request the records from your previous providers. Your FOLX clinician will also go over routine management for diabetes, including appropriate screenings for complications that can occur over time while living with diabetes. This may include referrals to an eye doctor or podiatrist.
Additional lab tests that are often ordered are screenings for high cholesterol, kidney function, and liver function tests.
If you have been diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes, this typically requires more complex management and requires regular visits with an endocrinologist. Note that we don’t do ongoing Type 1 diabetes management at FOLX, but our Member Navigation team can help you with any necessary referrals.
What kind of treatment options are there for diabetes?
Managing diabetes effectively involves a combination of medication, lifestyle adjustments, and regular monitoring of your blood glucose levels. Here are the strategies we may consider:
- Lifestyle Modifications:
- Dietary Changes: Incorporating a balanced diet rich in nutrients and low in processed sugars and fats.
- Regular Exercise: Aiming for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity per week.
- Weight Management: Achieving and maintaining a healthy-for-you body weight through a sustainable and affirming approach.
- Medications:
- Metformin: Helps reduce glucose production in the liver, often prescribed for type 2 diabetes.
- GLP-1 inhibitors: Helps the body secrete more insulin to lower glucose levels
- SGLT2 Inhibitors: Helps the kidneys lower glucose levels in the blood.
- DPP-4 Inhibitors: Helps improve blood sugar without causing hypoglycemia.
- Insulin Therapy: For type 1 diabetes and advanced type 2 diabetes. (Note: FOLX does not currently manage insulin therapy, so we will help get you connected to a referral who can, if needed. We can also continue to support you as your primary care provider or in your other healthcare needs.)
- Monitoring and Education:
- Regular monitoring of blood glucose levels.
- Education on self-managing diabetes, including how to recognize and handle potential complications.
- Routine screenings for complications like diabetic retinopathy, kidney disease, and neuropathy.
Our clinicians are committed to finding the best treatment approach that fits your specific lifestyle and needs, ensuring you feel supported throughout your treatment journey. If you have complicated diabetes or Type 1 diabetes, your FOLX clinician can work with you to find an affirming specialist to manage your diabetes.
We will never blame your health conditions on your body size or your hormone therapy.
Is there anything I should prepare for my visit?
To prepare for your visit with a FOLX clinician, consider tracking your blood sugar readings and any symptoms or changes you notice. Also, compile a list of any medications you’re currently taking. If relevant and possible, gather any past medical records related to your diabetes care so we can have the most complete picture. Being thorough and open about your health history and current symptoms will help us tailor our care specifically for you and help you thrive.
Symptoms that require immediate attention when you have diabetes
Red flags for diabetes are more severe or concerning symptoms that may indicate uncontrolled or advanced diabetes, which require immediate medical attention. These include:
- Unintentional Weight Loss: Significant and unexplained weight loss, even when eating normally or more than usual.
- Persistent Very High Blood Sugar Levels: Consistently elevated blood glucose levels, particularly when testing at home.
- Ketoacidosis Symptoms: Symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, fruity-smelling breath, and difficulty breathing, which may indicate diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a life-threatening condition.
- Severe Fatigue: Extreme tiredness that interferes with daily activities, even after rest.
- Vision Loss: Sudden or worsening vision problems, such as seeing floaters or experiencing blurry vision.
- Persistent Infections: Frequent or recurrent infections, particularly in the skin, gums, urinary tract, or respiratory system, that are difficult to treat.
- Non-Healing Wounds: Sores or cuts, particularly on the feet, that do not heal properly or become infected.
- Numbness or Loss of Sensation: Significant numbness, tingling, or loss of sensation in the hands, feet, or legs, which may indicate nerve damage (neuropathy).
- Severe Irritability or Mood Changes: Unexplained mood swings, anxiety, or depression that are more severe than usual.
- Confusion or Altered Mental Status: Episodes of confusion, difficulty concentrating, or altered mental state, which may suggest dangerously high or low blood sugar levels.
If you are experiencing any of these red flags, it's crucial to seek medical attention immediately. These symptoms can indicate severe complications of diabetes that require more urgent care. A FOLX clinician can discuss these symptoms with you, but it may be best to seek in-person care at an Urgent care facility, in person primary care, or Emergency room if these symptoms are severe.
Other resources / further reading
For more information on diabetes management and support, check out these resources:
- CDC - Diabetes in the LGBTQ Community
- American Diabetes Association - Managing Diabetes
- CDC - Diabetes Basics
- Mayo Clinic - Diabetes Management
At FOLX, we are committed to empowering you with the tools and knowledge to manage your diabetes in a way that fits your life and identity. Explore our services and join a community that understands your unique health needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can FOLX prescribe diabetes medication?
Yes, FOLX clinicians can prescribe diabetes medications, including oral medications like Metformin and some injectables like GLP-1 inhibitors. We manage prescriptions through virtual consultations and send medications to your local pharmacy for easy access to your medications.
How does FOLX support ongoing diabetes management?
FOLX offers continuous diabetes management support through regular virtual check-ins, medication adjustments, and lifestyle coaching. Our platform also allows you to message your care team anytime, helping you maintain control over your diabetes in real-time. We can help with anything from navigating your insurance or prior authorizations, to connecting with peers in the Community who also have diabetes.
What if I'm newly diagnosed with diabetes?
If you're newly diagnosed, FOLX provides a comprehensive care plan that includes education about your condition, medication management, and lifestyle advice. We ensure you have all the resources and support needed to start managing your diabetes confidently.
Can I use FOLX for my diabetes care if I am also receiving hormone replacement therapy (HRT)?
Absolutely! FOLX specializes in providing integrated care for the LGBTQIA+ community. Our clinicians are experienced in managing health holistically, including coordinating diabetes care with hormone replacement therapy to ensure your treatments are safe and effective together.
-----
FOLX Health is the first digital healthcare company designed by and for the LGBTQIA+ community. Our services include primary care, gender-affirming hormone therapy including estrogen and testosterone (HRT), mental health care, sexual and reproductive health care, and fertility consultations. FOLX memberships give you access to LGBTQIA+ expert clinicians, peer support, thousands of LGBTQIA+ resources, and more. Whether you’re lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, gender non-conforming, nonbinary, or another identity, you can find LGBTQ-specialized health care that helps you meet your wellness goals. Get all the benefits of becoming a FOLX member and sign up today!
