India is often called the diabetes capital of the world, and Tamil Nadu has a high burden of the disease. Yet many people manage diabetes only by taking a tablet and checking sugar occasionally. A diabetologist offers more structured care.
What is a diabetologist?
A diabetologist is a doctor who specialises in diagnosing and managing diabetes and its complications. They focus on keeping blood sugar in a safe range and protecting the heart, kidneys, eyes, nerves and feet.
What a diabetologist does
- Confirms the diagnosis and the type of diabetes
- Sets personal targets for fasting sugar, post-meal sugar and HbA1c
- Chooses and adjusts medicines, including insulin when needed
- Guides diet, exercise and weight management
- Screens regularly for complications
- Manages blood pressure and cholesterol alongside sugar
Why heart health matters in diabetes
People with diabetes have a higher risk of heart disease, and it can develop earlier and sometimes with milder warning symptoms. That is why diabetes care and cardiology often go together. A clinic that offers both lets your sugar, blood pressure, cholesterol and heart health be reviewed as a whole.
When to see a diabetologist
- You have been newly diagnosed or your reports show high sugar
- Your sugar remains uncontrolled despite medicines
- You have symptoms such as excess thirst, frequent urination, weight loss, blurred vision, slow-healing wounds, or tingling in the feet
- You have a family history of diabetes and want screening
- You are pregnant and have high sugar
Tests commonly monitored
- Fasting and post-meal blood sugar
- HbA1c every three months or as advised
- Lipid profile
- Kidney function and urine protein
- Eye examination and foot check yearly
What you can do at home
- Follow a balanced plate with more vegetables, whole grains and pulses
- Limit sweets, sugary drinks and refined flour
- Walk briskly for at least 30 minutes most days
- Take medicines on time and do not stop without advice
Bharath Cardio & Gynaec Centre in Porur is led by Dr. K. Thiyagarajan, MD, DM (Cardiology), with over 21 years of experience in cardiology and diabetes care.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can diabetes be cured?
Type 2 diabetes can often go into remission with significant lifestyle change, but it needs lifelong monitoring. Type 1 diabetes requires insulin.
How often should I check HbA1c?
Usually every three months until controlled, then every six months or as your doctor advises.
Is diabetes linked to heart attacks?
Yes. Diabetes raises the risk, so blood pressure, cholesterol and lifestyle also need careful control.
Book an Appointment
Bharath Cardio & Gynaec Centre, Plot No. C1, Anusha Garden Phase I, Mugalivakkam Main Road, Madhanandapuram, Chennai 600125. Call 9025747428. Open Monday to Saturday 5:00 pm to 9:30 pm and Sunday 9:00 am to 12:00 pm.