Diabetes

If you have diabetes or are trying to understand what it means for you or a loved one, we are happy to help. At Balance Medical in Bismarck, ND, we provide comprehensive care for people living with diabetes. Whether you’re newly diagnosed, at risk, or managing long-term diabetes, our team is here to help you feel supported.

What Is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a condition that affects how your body uses blood sugar (glucose). Glucose is your body’s main source of energy, but it needs help from insulin, a hormone made by the pancreas, to enter your cells. With diabetes, either your body doesn’t make enough insulin, doesn’t use insulin properly, or both.

There are different types of diabetes:

• Type 1 Diabetes: Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the body doesn’t make insulin. This is usually diagnosed in children or young adults, but it can occur at any age.
• Type 2 Diabetes: Type 2 diabetes is the most common form, where the body doesn’t use insulin effectively. This type of diabetes is often linked to genetics, weight, and lifestyle factors.
• Gestational Diabetes: Gestational diabetes develops during pregnancy and usually goes away after delivery, but increases future risk for Type 2 diabetes.

Without management, high blood sugar can lead to serious health problems over time, including heart disease, kidney disease, nerve damage, and vision loss.

Why You Might Have Diabetes

Diabetes can develop for many reasons, and risk factors differ by type. Some common factors include:

• Family history of diabetes
• Being overweight or inactive
• High blood pressure or high cholesterol
• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
• History of gestational diabetes
• Age (risk increases as you get older)

What to Expect at Balance Medical

If you come to Balance Medical for diabetes care, your visit will include:

• Reviewing your medical and family history
• Checking your blood sugar (A1C or fasting glucose test)
• Discussing your symptoms, lifestyle, and daily habits
• Creating a personalized management plan that may include nutrition, exercise, stress management, and medication

Our team takes the time to explain your test results, answer your questions, and help you feel confident about your diabetes management. We will also work closely with you to track your progress and make adjustments to your treatment when needed.

Recovery Timeline

No downtime. No hassle. Just flawless results.

Recovery and Long-Term Care

Diabetes is a condition that requires ongoing care. With the right tools, support, and consistency, you can live a healthy and fulfilling life. At Balance Medical, we’ll help you:

• Understand your blood sugar goals and how to monitor them
• Learn how food, exercise, stress, and sleep impact your glucose
• Manage medications or insulin in a way that fits your lifestyle
• Prevent or slow down complications with proactive care

Our Testimonials

“Absolutely love this place. First clinic that actually addresses my skin issues and comes up with a treatment plan that has literally worked miracles. My skin hasn't looked this good since I was 12! Thank you so much ladies!”

“Dr. Rhonda is the best! Comfortable, confident care is not just a tagline. She is personable, knowledgeable, and thorough. I would gladly recommend Balance Medical to anyone!”

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Why Choose Balance Medical for Diabetes Care?

Being told you have diabetes can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. At Balance, we focus on providing care that is supportive, practical, and personalized to you.

Our team is:

• Experienced in diagnosing and managing all types of diabetes
• Focused on education and prevention, not just prescriptions
• Known for our supportive and personable approach
• Rooted in care that considers your lifestyle, stress, and overall health

Dr. Rhonda Schafer-McLean and our care team are committed to empowering patients and providing them with personalized care. We don’t just manage numbers, we listen to your story, answer your questions, and build a plan that works for your life.

Ready to Learn More or Schedule Your Consultation?

If you’re concerned about your risk for diabetes, have symptoms, or need support managing an existing diagnosis, Balance Medical can help. Contact our office or schedule an appointment through our online contact form to schedule your evaluation.