Type 2 Diabetes
When Should You See a Diabetologist?
Written by Dr. Ajay V. Kaduskar, Diabetologist, Nagpur
MD (Medicine), PGDHSc (Diabetology), FEACD (The Netherlands)
Published · 4 min read
Quick answer
See a diabetologist when diabetes is newly diagnosed, blood sugar is not controlled despite treatment, you need insulin or injectable medicines, you have complications, you are pregnant or planning pregnancy, or you have frequent low sugar episodes. Regular specialist review is also useful once a year even when control is good.
A diabetologist is a doctor who specialises in diabetes and related conditions. Not everyone needs one at first, but certain situations make specialist care valuable.
Situations that call for a specialist
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Newly diagnosed diabetes, to set the right plan
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HbA1c above target despite medicines
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Starting or adjusting insulin
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Frequent hypoglycaemia
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Diabetes with kidney, eye, nerve or heart complications
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Pregnancy or planning pregnancy
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Diabetes in a young person or suspected type 1 diabetes
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Considering newer medicines or glucose monitors
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Diabetes with obesity or other metabolic problems
What a diabetologist offers
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Detailed assessment and tailored treatment
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Guidance on food, activity and monitoring
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Screening for complications
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Experience with newer medicines and technology
How to prepare
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Bring recent reports and medicines
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Bring glucose readings
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Write down your questions
Working with your family doctor
Specialist and family doctor care can work together for continuity.
The quick version
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Specialist care helps at diagnosis and when control slips.
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Insulin, complications and pregnancy need expert input.
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Yearly review is valuable.
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Bring records to the visit.
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Team care gives the best results.
Good diabetes care is often a team effort. For specialist guidance, you can consult Dr. Ajay V. Kaduskar at Niramay Clinics in Nagpur.
When to seek urgent care
Seek urgent care for extreme thirst with vomiting, confusion, deep rapid breathing, unusual drowsiness, or signs of very low sugar such as sweating, shaking and confusion.
Sources and further reading
Frequently asked questions
An annual review can still be helpful.
A diabetologist focuses on diabetes, while an endocrinologist treats hormone disorders more broadly.
Yes, that is common and reasonable.
Typically HbA1c, kidney and lipid tests, and eye and foot checks.
Not necessarily. Your doctor will explain your options.
Often every three to six months, or as advised.
Related reading
- Full guide: type 2 diabetes
- How Often Should You Check Blood Sugar and HbA1c?
- Diabetes and Kidney Disease: Which Tests You Need
- First Signs of Type 2 Diabetes You Should Not Ignore
- How to Control Blood Sugar Naturally: What Works and What Does Not
- Can Type 2 Diabetes Be Reversed or Put Into Remission?
If you would like advice suited to your own reports and medicines, you can book an appointment or visit Niramay Clinics in Dhantoli, Nagpur.
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Ready to talk to a specialist?
Call 0712 2422214 or +91 84591 41584, message us on WhatsApp, or use the appointment form. Please bring your previous reports and a list of the medicines you take.