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Primary Care in Astoria

Personalized Diabetes Care at mediDental care in Astoria

At mediDental care, we understand that diabetes (also known as diabetes mellitus) isn’t a one-size-fits-all condition. It’s a chronic disease that requires personalized treatment, education, and ongoing support. As a leading provider of primary care in Astoria, we help people with diabetes manage their condition with expert care plans tailored to their individual needs, lifestyle, and health goals.

Whether you are newly diagnosed with type 2 diabetes or are seeking better control of long-standing diabetes, our team is here to help you live healthier, longer, and with confidence.

What Is Diabetes?

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic condition that affects how your body processes blood sugar (glucose). It is important to distinguish diabetes mellitus from other forms such as diabetes insipidus, which is unrelated to blood sugar regulation. Glucose is essential for energy, but diabetes occurs when the body does not produce enough insulin or cannot use insulin effectively, leading to too much glucose in your bloodstream and causing serious health problems over time.

Types of Diabetes

  • Type 1 Diabetes: An autoimmune condition where the pancreas stops producing insulin; a form of diabetes mellitus
  • Type 2 Diabetes: The most common form, where the body becomes resistant to insulin; also classified as diabetes mellitus
  • Gestational Diabetes: A form of diabetes that occurs during pregnancy
  • Prediabetes: Higher-than-normal blood sugar levels, but not yet diabetes

Note: Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes are both forms of diabetes mellitus, which is characterized by high blood sugar due to insulin deficiency or resistance. This is distinct from other conditions such as diabetes insipidus.

Common Symptoms

  • Frequent urination
  • Increased thirst and hunger
  • Fatigue
  • Blurred vision
  • Slow wound healing
  • Tingling or numbness in hands/feet

Some people with type 2 diabetes have no symptoms, making regular screenings a vital part of primary care.

Diabetes Risks and Complications

Living with diabetes means being aware of the potential risks and complications that can arise if blood sugar is not managed effectively. Diabetes is a chronic condition that, without proper care, can impact nearly every part of the body. High blood sugar over time can damage blood vessels, nerves, and organs, leading to serious health concerns.

Managing diabetes is about more than just taking medicine—it’s about making daily choices that support your overall health. This includes regular monitoring of your blood sugar, following a healthy diet, staying physically active, and sticking to your treatment plan. By taking these steps, you can help prevent complications and enjoy a healthier, more active life.

Some of the most common complications of diabetes include:

  • Heart disease and stroke: High blood sugar can damage blood vessels, increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease.
  • Kidney damage: Diabetes is a leading cause of kidney failure.
  • Nerve damage: High sugar levels can cause tingling, pain, or loss of feeling, especially in the feet.
  • Eye problems: Diabetes can lead to vision loss or blindness if not managed.
  • Slow wound healing: High blood sugar can make it harder for your body to heal cuts and infections.

The good news is that with the right approach to managing diabetes—including regular physical activity, a healthy diet, and a personalized treatment plan—you can significantly lower your risk of these complications and protect your long-term health.

Why Ongoing Diabetes Management Matters

Without proper treatment, diabetes can lead to serious complications, including heart disease, kidney failure, nerve damage, vision loss, and stroke. Poor diabetes management increases the higher risk of developing these and other complications. With proactive care, you can manage the condition and prevent these outcomes.

Managing diabetes also involves addressing other health conditions, such as mental health issues or co-existing chronic illnesses, that may affect your overall outcomes.

Benefits of Primary Care for Diabetes

  • Personalized care plans that evolve with your needs
  • Regular monitoring to prevent complications
  • Medication management and lifestyle coaching
  • Access to education specialists, such as diabetes educators, for diabetes self-management education and support
  • Support for self-care routines to help you manage diabetes in daily life
  • Integrated care across specialties
  • Better quality of life and long-term wellness
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How mediDental care Manages Diabetes in Astoria

Our team focuses on helping patients manage diabetes with a comprehensive approach that emphasizes early detection, education, and sustainable health habits. Every patient receives a tailored plan that includes monitoring, medication, nutrition, and more, while also taking into account other health conditions that may impact diabetes management.

Step-by-Step Diabetes Care Plan

1. Diagnosis & Baseline Testing

When you are first diagnosed with diabetes, your healthcare provider will perform a series of baseline tests to get a clear picture of your current health. One of the most important tests is the glycated hemoglobin test (HbA1c), which shows your average blood glucose level over the past three months. This helps set a target range for your blood glucose levels and guides your treatment plan.

In addition to the A1C test, your provider may check your blood pressure, cholesterol, and kidney function to look for any early signs of diabetes complications. These tests are essential for understanding how diabetes is affecting your body and for catching any issues before they become serious. By establishing a baseline, your care team can tailor your treatment and help you keep your blood glucose, blood pressure, and other health markers within a healthy range.

2. Personalized Treatment Plan

Every person with diabetes is unique, which is why a personalized treatment plan is so important. Your plan will be designed to fit your lifestyle, health concerns, and family history, ensuring you get the support you need to manage your blood glucose levels effectively.

This plan may include diabetes medicines, insulin therapy, or a combination of both, depending on your needs. Working with a registered dietitian can help you create a diabetes meal plan that focuses on healthy foods, counting carbs, and managing portion sizes. Regular physical activity, such as brisk walking, is also a key part of managing diabetes, as it helps lower blood glucose and supports overall health.

Your treatment plan will also address any other health concerns you may have, and your provider will work with you to make adjustments as your needs change. By staying engaged and following your plan, you can take control of your diabetes and protect your health for the long term.

3. Education & Support

Education and support are at the heart of effective diabetes care. A diabetes educator can teach you how to monitor your blood sugar, recognize the symptoms of low blood sugar (such as feeling shaky or dizzy), and understand what to do if your blood sugar level drops too low. They can also help you identify the signs of high blood sugar, called hyperglycemia, and guide you in making healthy choices every day.

Support from family, friends, and your healthcare team can make a big difference in staying motivated and managing the emotional side of diabetes. If you ever feel overwhelmed, a mental health professional can help you cope with stress, anxiety, or depression related to your diagnosis. Remember, taking care of your mental health is just as important as managing your blood sugar—both are essential for your overall well-being.

4. Routine Follow-Ups & Adjustments

Ongoing care is essential for preventing diabetes complications and keeping your health on track. Regular follow-up visits with your healthcare provider allow for close monitoring of your blood glucose levels, blood pressure, and any signs of nerve damage or other health problems. These appointments are also a chance to review your treatment plan and make any necessary adjustments.

By staying proactive and making healthy lifestyle changes, you can reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease, heart disease, and other complications linked to diabetes. Your provider may also discuss new research or clinical trials that could benefit your diabetes management. With consistent care and support, you can stay ahead of potential problems and enjoy a healthier, more active life.

1. Diagnosis & Baseline Testing

  • Individuals at high risk, such as those with a family history of diabetes or pregnant women, may require earlier or more frequent screening.
  • Fasting blood sugar tests (FBS): Measures your blood glucose after fasting, with results reported in mg/dL.
  • HbA1c test (3-month blood sugar average)
  • Kidney function and cholesterol screening
  • Blood pressure evaluation
  • For home blood sugar monitoring, a glucose meter can be used to check your levels daily.
  • A continuous glucose monitor is another option, providing real-time tracking of blood sugar fluctuations and helping improve diabetes management.

2. Personalized Treatment Plan

Your provider will create a plan that may include:

  • Medications (oral pills or insulin), with adjustments to your insulin dose based on blood glucose monitoring results
  • Blood glucose monitoring tools
  • Insulin pump therapy for continuous insulin delivery, if appropriate
  • Nutrition guidance with referrals to dietitians
  • Exercise recommendations tailored to your health
  • Bariatric surgery as a potential treatment option for eligible patients with type 2 diabetes

3. Education & Support

  • Understanding how food, stress, and sleep affect blood sugar
  • How to use glucometers and track trends
  • Goal setting for lifestyle improvements
  • Consulting education specialists, such as diabetes educators or members of the Association of Diabetes Care & Education Specialists, can provide personalized diabetes self-management education and support.
  • Focusing on self care in daily routines is essential for effective diabetes management and maintaining healthy blood glucose levels.
  • Education and support are especially important for the newly diagnosed, helping them build a strong foundation for long-term diabetes self-management.

4. Routine Follow-Ups & Adjustments

  • Quarterly HbA1c testing
  • Medication adjustments as needed
  • Monitoring for signs of complications (neuropathy, retinopathy, etc.)
  • Reviewing and adjusting activity level to help manage blood glucose, especially during changes in health or routine
  • Recommending more physical activity to support weight management and improve diabetes outcomes
  • Emphasizing the importance of getting enough sleep, as most adults need 7-8 hours per night for optimal health and blood sugar regulation

What Makes Our Approach Different

We believe diabetes care should be empowering—not overwhelming. Our primary care in Astoria includes:

  • Clear explanations and consistent support
  • Flexible care plans that fit your routine
  • Open communication and easy access to providers
  • Referrals to trusted specialists when needed (e.g., endocrinologists, eye care, podiatry)
  • Coordination with insurance and pharmacy benefits
  • Support for achieving and maintaining a healthy weight
  • Guidance on choosing healthy food as part of your diabetes care
  • Help to stop smoking and reduce related health risks

Lifestyle Support for Diabetes

Beyond medication, diabetes management includes sustainable lifestyle changes. Consuming fewer calories is important for effective weight management, which can help improve blood sugar control. Diabetes can also affect the immune system, so supporting immune health is a key part of overall care. Our team helps guide you through these choices with compassion and practical strategies.

Key Lifestyle Focus Areas

  • Healthy Eating
  • Portion control and meal timing
  • Low-glycemic foods
  • Carb counting (if applicable)
  • Physical Activity
  • Minimum 150 minutes/week of moderate exercise
  • Walking, resistance training, yoga
  • Tailored to your joint health and mobility
  • Tips to prevent low blood glucose during exercise, such as monitoring levels and having snacks available
  • Stress Management
  • Mindfulness techniques
  • Sleep hygiene support
  • Referrals for counseling or therapy when needed
  • Lifestyle changes to reduce the risk of heart attack, such as managing stress and maintaining a healthy routine
  • Preventive Screenings
  • Annual eye exams
  • Foot checks at every visit
  • Flu and pneumonia vaccines

When to See a Doctor About Diabetes

If you notice any of the following signs or risk factors, schedule a consultation:

  • Family history of diabetes
  • Unexplained weight changes
  • Slow-healing wounds or frequent infections
  • Blurred vision
  • Symptoms of low blood sugar (shakiness, sweating, confusion)

Early diagnosis and consistent management make a world of difference.

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Why Choose mediDental care for Diabetes Care in Astoria?

  • Highly experienced primary care providers
  • Same-day and evening appointments available
  • Culturally inclusive and multilingual team
  • Personalized education and support
  • In-house diagnostic testing for fast results
  • Focus on total-body wellness and long-term care

We're proud to be a trusted hub for primary care in Astoria—and that includes chronic disease management like diabetes.

Book a Diabetes Consultation in Astoria Today

Managing diabetes doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right care team, tools, and support, you can take control of your health and live well every day.

📍 Visit us at mediDental care in Astoria, Queens
📞 Call or book your appointment online

Take the first step toward better blood sugar control today—your future self will thank you.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Flu vaccines are thoroughly tested and monitored for safety by the CDC and other health organizations. The flu shot is a safe and effective way to protect yourself from the flu, and serious side effects are very rare. Most people experience only mild side effects, such as soreness, redness, or swelling at the injection site, and occasionally a low-grade fever or mild muscle aches. These symptoms usually go away within a day or two. If you have certain medical conditions or concerns about vaccination, talk to your healthcare professional—they can help you make the best decision for your health and answer any questions about flu vaccines.

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While the flu vaccine is the most effective way to protect against the flu, it’s still possible to get sick, as no vaccine is 100% effective. The flu vaccine is designed to protect against the most common influenza viruses each season, but you could still be exposed to a different strain. It also takes about two weeks after vaccination for your body to build immunity, so you may still be at risk during that period. However, if you do get the flu after being vaccinated, your symptoms—such as fever, cough, or muscle aches—are likely to be milder, and your risk of serious complications and hospitalization is much lower. If you experience flu symptoms, contact your healthcare professional for guidance and treatment. Getting vaccinated each year remains the best way to protect yourself and those around you from influenza and its complications.

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Yes. The flu vaccine has been safely used for decades. It cannot give you the flu—it contains inactivated virus or no virus at all.

Can I get the flu even after being vaccinated?

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It’s possible, but the shot reduces your chances and may lessen the severity of illness if you do get sick.

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The flu shot is recommended and safe during pregnancy. It helps protect both mother and baby.

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Yes. The flu virus changes each season, so you need a new vaccine each year.

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We offer egg-free flu vaccines. Just let us know in advance.

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Yes! You can receive multiple vaccines during the same visit. We’ll review timing and spacing to ensure safety.

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Address:

2246 31st St, Astoria, NY 11105

Hours of Operation

Monday
10:00 am - 6:00 pm
Tuesday
10:00 am - 6:00 pm
Wednesday
10:00 am - 6:00 pm
Thursday
10:00 am - 6:00 pm
Friday
Closed
Saturday
Closed
Sunday
11:00 am - 4:00 pm