Acute Care

What is acute care?

Acute care is a medical service that manages immediate medical problems, such as an unexpected illness or injury. Though not all illnesses and injuries require a visit to the doctor, you may need acute care if you have diabetes.

Having diabetes makes you more susceptible to complications from an illness or injury. These types of medical problems stress the body and may cause an increase in blood glucose levels, which can delay recovery or wound healing.

Dedicated to providing all the services you need to manage your diabetes, the team at AM Diabetes Centers of America offers exceptional acute care. 

When do I need acute care?

You may need acute care at AM Diabetes Centers of America if you have an illness or injury that’s not improving with at-home care or you have severe symptoms. You also need acute care when you have any type of foot injury. 

The team at AM Diabetes Centers of America also recommends you come in for acute care if your blood glucose levels are too high (hyperglycemia) or too low (hypoglycemia).

Hyperglycemia

When left untreated, hyperglycemia may lead to ketoacidosis, also called a diabetes coma, a life-threatening condition that causes shortness of breath, a very dry mouth, and nausea and vomiting. 

Hypoglycemia

When you have hypoglycemia, your blood glucose levels drop so low it triggers the release of epinephrine, the “fight or flight” hormone. Without intervention, your brain may not get enough glucose to function properly, causing blurred vision and difficulty concentrating.

Continuous blood glucose monitoring at home is the best way to track your blood glucose levels. If they regularly go too high or too low, it’s a sign that something is wrong and you may need acute care.

What happens during acute care?

The specifics of your acute care at AM Diabetes Centers of America depends on the reason for your visit, your blood glucose readings, and the type of diabetes you have. Your provider reviews symptoms and concerns and checks your blood glucose level.

They ask about your medication routine and diet and perform a physical exam. They provide any necessary treatment for your acute condition and make recommendations for at-home care.

The team also provides acute care for patients newly diagnosed with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. 

For expert acute care for your diabetes, call AM Diabetes Centers of America or schedule an appointment online today.