extreme thirst, polydipsia, anemia and diabetes
Dr. Srujana Yada for Health Central: How Anemia Can Cause Excess Thirst

There are numerous causes of unexplained increased thirst (polydipsia), including dehydration, anemia, dry mouth, and hypercalcemia. However, it is mostly commonly associated with diabetes. 

In a recent Health Central article, endocrinologist Dr. Srujana Yada explains that extreme thirst can be a result of severe anemia because when “blood pressure drops and blood volume decreases, one of the mechanisms our brain uses to maintain blood pressure is to increase water intake.” 

Dr. Yada advises people to drink two to three liters of fluid (about a gallon) a day, and  “if a person is drinking more than a gallon a day for several days and unable to quench thirst even after that, I would recommend seeing a doctor.”  

Read the article to learn about the causes of polydipsia and when to see a doctor.

For more information on our comprehensive endocrinology services, schedule a consultation with one of our board certified endocrinologists by requesting an appointment online or call (512) 458-8400. 

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diabetes myths
Diabetes Myths: Seperating Fact from Fiction

With diabetes on a steady incline globally, knowing the facts is essential. Here are five common diabetes myths and how to take charge of your health.

Eating too much sugar causes diabetes

Although this myth is false, there are some complexities surrounding the matter. Eating too much sugar doesn’t cause diabetes directly. However, a diet consisting mainly of sugar can lead to excess weight and obesity, which are risk factors for type 2 diabetes. 

Prediabetes will always lead to diabetes

Prediabetes occurs in about one out of every three adults in the United States and means that your blood glucose levels are higher than normal, but not high enough to be considered diabetes yet.

Prediabetes can put you at risk of type 2 diabetes, stroke, and heart disease. Luckily, proper diet changes and staying active can help prevent that from happening.

Being overweight causes diabetes

This is false. While being overweight puts you at risk of developing diabetes, it doesn’t always lead to the condition. Other diabetes risk factors include family history, age, race, lack of physical activity, and being diagnosed as prediabetic or previously having gestational diabetes. 

It’s not safe to exercise when you have diabetes

Regular exercise plays a key role in regulating blood sugar levels and therefore managing diabetes. Physical activity also helps lower your risk of diabetes-related complications, such as heart disease and nerve damage. The American Diabetes Association recommends 150 minutes of moderate intensity aerobic exercise per week. 

Our endocrinologists advise patients to keep the following recommendations in mind:

  • Always talk to your doctor before starting a new workout regime.
  • Prevent dehydration by drinking plenty of fluids.
  • Always check your blood sugar before and after being physically active, especially if you take insulin. You may need to adjust your dosage based on how your body reacts to exercise. 

I’ll know if I have diabetes

In a recent 2020 CDC report, 7.2 million adults who met laboratory criteria for diabetes were not aware of or did not report having diabetes.

Some diabetes symptoms can be hard to spot, take years to develop, or only appear when blood sugar levels are extremely high. Symptoms such as consistent hunger, thirst, blurred vision, and frequent urination should not be ignored. Routine wellness exams are critical in detecting diabetes early and preventing any long-term complications.

Endocrinologists in Austin, TX

If you’d like to learn more about our full range of endocrine services, please call Texas Diabetes and Endocrinology at (512) 458-8400 or request an appointment online

Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook and Instagram and check back with us each month as we provide you helpful wellness and health information.

Dr. Srujana Yada Clarifies How Ultra-Processed Foods Affect People with Type 2 Diabetes 

Ultra-processed foods are natural foods that have been changed by adding ingredients like salt, sugar, oil, and other additives. These changes result in longer shelf life and convenience. They make up about 60% of the average individual’s caloric intake. 

Research has indicated that eating ultra-processed foods can increase mortality risk in people with type 2 diabetes. The risk of heart disease is more than double with UPA’s.

In a recent Healthline article, endocrinologist Dr. Srujana Yada shares her knowledge about ultra-processed food’s effect on the body. Dr. Yada says “UPFs are loaded with sugar and have less fiber, which leads to rapid glucose spikes and can cause weight gain, increased insulin resistance, and worsened diabetes control.”

Read the article to learn about ultra-processed foods’ effect on people with type 2 diabetes.

For more information on our personalized approach to diabetes management, schedule a consultation with one of our board certified endocrinologists by requesting an appointment online or call (512) 458-8400. 

Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook and Instagram and check back with us each month as we provide you with helpful wellness and health information.

Advanced Practice Providers (APPs) are skilled professionals that play a critical role in our practice to ensure patients receive high quality, comprehensive care.
What is an Advanced Practice Provider?

Advanced Practice Providers (APPs) are skilled professionals that play a critical role in our practice to ensure patients receive high quality, comprehensive care. Our endocrinologists work with Physician Assistants (PA), Nurse Practitioners (NP), and Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNS), who all have extensive training and offer a patient-centered approach that focuses on preventive care, education and overall wellness.

What is the difference between the various types of APPs? 

Physician Assistant has a master’s degree and works in collaboration with a licensed physician, providing almost all services as a physician. A Nurse Practitioner has earned both a bachelor of science in nursing and a master of science in nursing degree prior to undergoing a certification exam and applying for a NP license. A Clinical Nurse Specialist is a graduate-level registered nurse who is certified in a specialty. Nurse Practitioners and Clinical Nurse Specialists can both diagnose and treat patients, prescribe medications, and order and interpret medical tests.

What is a Certified Diabetes Educator? 

At Texas Diabetes, all of our advanced practice providers are also Certified Diabetes Educators (CDE), who educate, support, and advocate for people impacted by diabetes. CDEs must have clinical diabetes experience and training and pass a national exam to become credentialed. Our APPs have comprehensive knowledge and experience in diabetes prevention, prediabetes and diabetes management. 

APPs at Texas Diabetes and Endocrinology

The APPs at Texas Diabetes and Endocrinology have had rigorous clinical training, are licensed by the State of Texas, and can prescribe medication. Most of our new diabetes patients will have their initial visit with an APP who will spend time with you getting a thorough health history, reviewing lab results, and devising an appropriate treatment plan. Our number one goal is to educate and support you on your journey and be there every step of the way to help you manage your condition.  

We are fortunate to have the opportunity to work with such an incredible team of APPs, including:

  • Amanda Bonazzi, MSN, APRN, ACNS-BC, CDCES
  • Ashley Davila, MSN, ACNS-BC, Clinical Lipid Specialist
  • Azaret Villeda, MSN, APRN, FNP-C
  • Ben Pagano, MSN, ACNS-BC, CDE
  • Brandy Wellmon, PA-C, CDCES
  • Carmen Addington, MSN, FNP, CDCES
  • Carrie Barlow, PA-C, CDCES,
  • Emily Simon, MSN, APRN, AGCNS-BC, CDCES
  • Jessica Ribeiro, RN, MSN, FNP, CDCES
  • Kim Jones, MSN, FNP, CDCES
  • Rachel Kohls, MSN, AGCNS-BC, CDCES
  • Sarah King, MSN, FNP-C, CDCES
  • Tracy Chan, MSN, FNP, CDCES

If you’d like to learn more about our full range of endocrine services, please call Texas Diabetes and Endocrinology at (512) 458-8400 or request an appointment online.  

Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook and Instagram and check back with us each month as we provide you helpful wellness and health information.

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