What kind of doctor do you see for diabetes?

If you’ve recently been diagnosed or think you may have diabetes, there are many resources you can turn to. Primary care doctors mostly manage diabetes treatment, but other specialists treat select side effects. Here is an overview of the professionals you may encounter in your journey. 

See your primary care physician for general diabetes treatment

Most diabetes patients receive routine screenings and prescriptions from their family doctor or primary care physician (PCP). Over 34 million Americans have diabetes, and treatment/support is widely available. If you do not have a PCP, finding one would be the first step in your journey.

Complex cases may need treatment with an endocrinologist

Some diabetes cases are referred to an endocrinologist. This is a doctor that specializes in diabetes treatment. Not every person with diabetes has to see an endocrinologist. The goal with any treatment regimen is to find a way to manage your symptoms.  

See an eye doctor for vision struggles with diabetes

Vision problems are common among patients with diabetes. High blood sugar can cause glaucoma, cataracts, blurry vision, and a number of other symptoms. Getting your diabetes under control may reduce these risks, but you’ll need routine eye exams to treat the symptoms. 

Your ophthalmologist (eye doctor) can monitor your optical health closely to stay on top of future problems. You may have symptoms you have not noticed yet because they’re in the early stages. That’s great! We can treat them now to prevent larger issues moving forward. 

Other specialists who treat symptoms of diabetes

In addition to your primary care doctor, eye doctor, and endocrinologist, you may work with a dietician to manage your diet with diabetes. Similarly, you may see a podiatrist for foot problems or a dentist for oral health concerns. Your symptoms will determine which doctors you use for diabetes treatment.