Amherst Has a New Doctor: Understanding Diabetes Symptoms & Local Treatment  

Managing Type 2 Diabetes isn't just about numbers. It's about living your best life right here in Amherst. 

I’m Dr. Shawn Wallace, and I’m truly excited to join Amherst Family Practice and become part of this welcoming community, serving families in Amherst, Milford, and the surrounding southern New Hampshire towns. While I may be new to the practice, I’ve spent over 10 years helping patients understand and manage Type 2 Diabetes, a condition I’m deeply committed to. As part of Southern New Hampshire Health and an affiliate of Massachusetts General Hospital, our practice is proud to offer both personal, local care and access to world-class resources, right here in our community. 

Many people don't realize that diabetes can affect their whole body, especially their heart. The American Diabetes Association (ADA) explains that when you have Type 2 Diabetes, your body doesn't use insulin effectively, leading to high glucose levels (blood sugar) and potentially leading to serious complications. According to the American Heart Association (AHA), people with Type 2 Diabetes are more likely to face serious heart problems like heart attacks and strokes. These are serious consequences, and it’s why taking charge of your diabetes is so crucial. 

Know the Signs: Are You at Risk for Type 2 Diabetes? 

Sometimes, the symptoms of Type 2 Diabetes can be subtle, or you might not notice them at all. That's why regular check-ups are so important. However, it's good to be aware of the common symptoms that might suggest high blood sugar. According to the ADA, symptoms of Type 2 Diabetes include: 

• Urinating often 
• Feeling very thirsty 
• Feeling very hungry— even though you are eating 
• Extreme fatigue 
• Areas of dark skin— usually in armpit or neck 
• Blurry vision 
• Cuts/bruises that are slow to heal 
• Tingling, pain, or numbness in the hands/feet 

If you notice any of these symptoms, talk to your doctor. Early detection and management can make a big difference in preventing more serious health problems down the road. 

5 Tips for Managing Type 2 Diabetes 

Through my years of experience caring for patients, I’ve learned that tackling diabetes comes down to five key things: 

1. Eat smart: Small changes in your diet can make a huge difference. Think about adding more fresh veggies, lean proteins, and cutting back on sugary drinks. Every little bit counts. 
2. Get moving: You don't need to run a marathon! Even a regular walk around Amherst village, walking the track at the high school, or exploring our local trails can help. The AHA suggests aiming for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise each week. I suggest striving for 30 minutes per day, five days a week or even three 10-minute walks daily five days per week.  
3. Take your medications: If your doctor prescribes medication, sticking to that plan is really important for keeping your blood sugar in check. 
4. Check your blood sugar: Regularly checking your blood sugar numbers gives us valuable information, helping to fine-tune your treatment plan to what works best for you. 
5. Partner with us: Regular check-ups are key. We're here to help you track your progress, adjust your plan as needed, and connect you with other helpful local resources like nutritionists. 

I look forward to building strong relationships with patients here in Amherst and providing the compassionate care you deserve. I understand the ups and downs of managing a chronic condition, and I’m here to support you every step of the way.  

If you're looking for a primary care doctor in Amherst, NH or need personalized help with diabetes management, please reach out to us at Amherst Family Practice. Let's work together to help you live a healthier, happier life. 

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 Dr. Shawn Wallace is a board-certified family physician at Amherst Family Practice in Amherst, New Hampshire. Dr. Wallace enjoys the variety family medicine offers, from diagnosing and treating to helping patients of all ages prevent illness before it starts.