5 diabetes specialists you should consult

There are many types of professionals who can help you deal with diabetes. Here's a list of five diabetes specialists and what they do.

Specializes in the management of diabetes, hormones and metabolism.

• These doctors help you match your treatment to your blood sugar, eating and exercise pattern.
• You'll likely need one if you're having trouble controlling your blood sugar.

Shows you how to administer insulin, perform blood tests, and balance your eating and exercise with your blood-sugar readings.

• A diabetes educator will also answer all the questions your doctor may not have time for.
• Not a licensed doctor, but trained in diabetes care.

Helps you learn how to choose the best foods, plan meals and improve your eating habits.

• A dietitian can help whether your main goal is to lose weight or to fine-tune your glucose intake.
• A dietitian helps you find both health and pleasure in what you eat by carefully matching your food to your drug or insulin use, your exercise and your daily schedule.
• If anything about your treatment changes — or you get bored with your meal plan — your dietitian can help you adjust.

A doctor who diagnoses and treats eye damage from diabetes.

• Visit your ophthalmologist at least once a year, but don't wait for your annual exam if you notice changes in your vision or feel pain or pressure in your eyes — possible signs of damage that require immediate attention.

High blood sugar makes you prone to foot problems partly because it hinders circulation. Small sores and calluses can quickly worsen if you don't keep on top of them. Your primary care physician should always check your feet when you go for an exam (and you should too, every day). But your podiatrist is the best person to treat sores, calluses, corns, bunions, infections or any other problem that may develop.

• Your podiatrist can also give you pointers on keeping your feet healthy.
• Ask your primary care physician or endocrinologist to refer you to an experienced podiatrist who has lots of patients with diabetes.

These specialists can help you control your diabetes. Ask your doctor for recommendations and find your ideal group of specialists today!