Your body’s endocrine system is made up of the thyroid, pancreas, parathyroid, adrenal, gonad and pituitary glands and the hormones they secrete.

These glands regulate specific functions like your metabolism, blood pressure and reproduction, among others. 
How these hormones interact with one another and the other systems in your body can affect your overall health. The endocrinology experts at Cook County Health are trained to treat many conditions that affect the endocrine system and cause metabolism problems, including diabetes, thyroid dysfunction, thyroid cancer, pituitary, adrenal, parathyroid, and gonadal dysfunction. 

What is Diabetes?

Diabetes affects millions of people every day.
Diabetes is a disease that occurs when your levels of blood sugar get too high. Most blood sugar comes from the food we eat. Foods that are high in fat, like red meat and junk food, cause more blood sugar. Diabetes can be managed, but it can lead to serious health problems if left untreated. 

What are Common Symptoms?

The only sure way to know if you have diabetes is to visit your doctor.
See a doctor immediately if you experience any of these symptoms:  
  • Blurred vision
  • Extreme thirst, hunger or fatigue  
  • Frequent infections or sores that take too long to heal 
  • Unexplained weight loss 
  • Using the bathroom too often 

Treatments

You can manage your diabetes through simple, every day choices.
  • Drink plenty of water  
  • Eat less fat and avoid processed foods  
  • Exercise regularly  
  • Stay on your insulin schedule  
  • See your medical professional regularly  
At Cook County Health, patients who are diabetic are encouraged to visit your primary care provider or local Cook County Health diabetes clinic. 
To schedule an appointment, contact Cook County Health at (312) 864-0200.
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