Diabetes is a common and serious health condition in the UAE, with nearly one in five adults affected. At our Internal Medicine Department’s Diabetes Clinic in Dubai, we provide comprehensive care for adults living with diabetes. Our approach combines medical expertise, personalized treatment plans, and compassionate support to help you manage diabetes effectively and improve your quality of life. Whether you have type 1 or type 2 diabetes, our experienced team of diabetes doctors in Dubai is here to guide you towards better health.
Understanding Diabetes
Diabetes mellitus is a chronic condition where the body has trouble regulating blood sugar (glucose) levels. This happens either because the pancreas does not produce enough insulin or because the body cannot use insulin properly. There are two main types of diabetes in adults:
Type 1 Diabetes: An autoimmune condition usually starting in youth, though it can occur in adults. The body’s immune system attacks the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas, resulting in little or no insulin. People with type 1 diabetes require daily insulin injections or an insulin pump to control their blood sugar.
Type 2 Diabetes: The most common form of diabetes, typically developing in adulthood. In type 2, the body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn’t produce enough to keep blood sugar normal. Type 2 diabetes can often be managed with lifestyle changes and oral medications at first, though some patients may eventually need insulin or other injectable treatments.
Many adults also have prediabetes, where blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not yet in the diabetic range. Prediabetes is a warning sign — without intervention, it can progress to type 2 diabetes. The good news is that with healthy eating, regular exercise, and weight management, prediabetes can often be reversed or delayed.
Factors such as obesity, physical inactivity, poor diet, and family history increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. If you’re concerned about your risk, our clinic offers screening and guidance on preventing or delaying diabetes.
Signs and Symptoms of Diabetes
Early detection of diabetes is crucial for effective treatment. Common signs and symptoms to watch for include:
Frequent urination (especially needing to wake up at night)
Excessive thirst and dry mouth
Increased hunger even after meals
Unexplained weight loss
Fatigue or lack of energy
Blurred vision
Slow-healing cuts or frequent infections
Tingling or numbness in hands and feet
Keep in mind that type 2 diabetes often develops gradually. Some people can have type 2 diabetes or prediabetes for years without obvious symptoms. That’s why regular health check-ups are important, especially if you have risk factors. Our clinic provides convenient diabetes screening tests (such as blood glucose and HbA1c) to catch any early signs. If you notice any of the symptoms above or are at high risk, get your blood sugar tested. Early diagnosis allows for timely management to prevent complications.
Our Comprehensive Approach to Diabetes Care
Managing diabetes isn’t just about taking medication — it’s about empowering you with the right tools, knowledge, and support. We use a multidisciplinary, patient-centered approach, so when you visit our diabetes care center, you can expect:
Experienced Diabetes Specialists: Our team includes skilled internal medicine physicians who specialize in diabetes care. These dedicated doctors work with endocrinologists and other specialists as needed, taking a team approach so that all aspects of your health are addressed.
Personalized Treatment Plans: We understand that every patient is unique. Our doctors conduct a thorough evaluation – including blood tests and a detailed health assessment – to create a treatment plan tailored to you. We involve you in the decision-making process, making sure the plan is practical and fits your daily life. Your plan may cover diet, exercise, medication, and more.
Medical Management (Tablets & Insulin): Whether you need oral medications or insulin therapy, we offer the full spectrum of diabetes treatments. Our physicians stay up-to-date with the latest advances in diabetes medications, from traditional oral drugs to newer injectable therapies. We carefully select and adjust your medication regimen to achieve optimal blood sugar control while minimizing side effects. We also manage related health factors such as blood pressure and cholesterol, since these are important in overall diabetes care.
Advanced Glucose Monitoring: Staying on top of your blood sugar is easier with the right tools. We provide guidance on modern monitoring options, including continuous glucose monitors (CGM) and easy-to-use home blood glucose meters. Our team will teach you how to use these devices and understand the results, so you can make informed decisions day to day. Using the latest technology gives you and your doctor a clearer view of your blood sugar trends, helping us fine-tune your treatment more precisely.
Nutritional Guidance & Lifestyle Support: A healthy diet and active lifestyle are cornerstone treatments for diabetes. Our clinic has a clinical dietitian who will work with you to create a balanced meal plan tailored to your nutritional needs and cultural preferences. We offer practical advice on meal planning, portion control, and making healthy food choices that fit your lifestyle – whether you’re at home, work, or dining out. We’ll also help you incorporate regular physical activity in ways you enjoy, to improve blood sugar control and overall fitness. If weight loss is needed, we support you with safe weight management strategies, since even a modest drop in weight can significantly improve blood sugar control in type 2 diabetes.
Ongoing Education & Support: Living with diabetes is a journey, and we are with you every step of the way. We make sure you know how to use your medications and devices correctly, and how to recognize and handle issues like high or low blood sugar. We schedule regular follow-up appointments to track your progress and fine-tune your plan as needed. Between visits, you are encouraged to reach out if you have any questions or concerns. We provide education and personal support to empower you to confidently manage your diabetes day by day.
Why Choose HealthHub
Extensive Experience
Advanced Facilities
Affordable premium services
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What lifestyle changes can help manage diabetes?
Adopting a healthy lifestyle is key. Eat a balanced diet that’s low in refined sugars and processed carbs and rich in vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and fiber. Exercise regularly (e.g. 30 minutes of brisk walking most days) to help control blood sugar and weight. Also avoid smoking and limit alcohol – these habits support better blood sugar control and overall health.
What are the risks of uncontrolled diabetes?
Uncontrolled high blood sugar can damage many parts of the body. It greatly increases the risk of heart disease and stroke, can lead to kidney failure, cause vision loss (diabetic eye disease), and result in nerve damage (leading to numbness or pain in the hands and feet). Poorly controlled diabetes also slows wound healing and can cause serious complications like diabetic foot ulcers. Keeping blood sugar under control with diet, medication, and exercise helps prevent these complications.
Can diabetes be cured, or how long will I need treatment?
Diabetes is generally a long-term condition.
Type 1 diabetes
requires lifelong insulin because the body cannot produce insulin on its own (there’s no cure at present).
Type 2 diabetes
can often be very well-managed with lifestyle changes and medication – and in some cases of Type 2, significant weight loss (through diet, exercise, or surgery) can put the disease into remission (normal blood sugars without meds). However, even in remission, you need to maintain healthy habits, and regular monitoring is necessary. In most cases, expect to manage diabetes for life, but with proper care, people with diabetes can live full, healthy lives.