Diabetes Specialist

Ajay Reddy, M.D. -  - Internal Medicine Physician

Ajay Reddy, M.D.

Internal Medicine Physician located in Rockville, MD

About 30.3 million people in the United States had diabetes in 2015 and the numbers are on the rise, according to the American Diabetes Association. In Rockville, Maryland, Dr. Ajay Reddy knows the impact diabetes can have on everyday life and offers individualized treatment plans for men and women dealing with this complex disease. Dr. Reddy takes time to help you determine the right treatment plan to manage your diabetes and improve your health overall. Start by booking your consultation online or call the office today to speak with a friendly staff member.

Diabetes Q & A

What is diabetes?

Diabetes is a disease where your blood sugar levels are too high. Blood sugar (glucose) is used as an energy source by your body. Your pancreas is located near your stomach and secretes a hormone called insulin that works to keep your blood sugar levels normal and regulated.

When you consume sugar and foods that turn to sugar in your body, your pancreas secretes insulin to ensure your blood sugar levels stay within a safe range. The insulin hormone directs excess blood sugar from your bloodstream into your cells.

Blood sugar levels rise when your body is unable to properly produce or respond to insulin. High blood sugar levels can lead to diabetes.

What are the symptoms of diabetes?

The symptoms of diabetes include:

  • Fatigue
  • Irritability
  • Frequent urination
  • Vision complications
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Excess thirst and hunger

Some men and women with diabetes get regular infections, including vaginal, gum, or skin infections.

What are the different types of diabetes?

There are four different types of diabetes: Type 1, Type 2, prediabetes, and gestational diabetes.

Type 1 diabetes

Your immune system usually fights off harmful viruses and bacteria. With Type 1 diabetes, your immune system starts attacking the pancreatic cells that produce the insulin hormone.

Type 2 diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes. It happens when your body doesn’t create enough insulin or doesn’t respond correctly to insulin, leading to high levels of blood sugar.


Blood sugar levels that are above average but not high enough to be in the diabetes zone are considered prediabetes. Prediabetes is a warning zone and can develop into Type 2 diabetes over time.

Gestational diabetes

Gestational diabetes occurs during pregnancy and typically goes away after childbirth.

What causes diabetes?

The cause of diabetes isn’t exactly clear, but some factors are said to play a part, such as:

  • Aging
  • Obesity
  • Inactivity
  • Genetics
  • Hormones
  • Family history
  • Certain medical conditions, including high cholesterol, hypertension, and autoimmune diseases

Without proper management, diabetes can lead to serious complications, including nerve damage, cardiovascular disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and damage to the skin, eyes, feet, hearing, and kidneys.

What are the treatments for diabetes?

Dr. Reddy offers effective treatments to help you manage your diabetes, including:

  • Insulin and oral medications
  • Lifestyle changes, including nutrition, exercise, smoking cessation, and stress management
  • Blood-sugar monitoring

Dr. Reddy works with you to regulate your blood sugar, lower stress hormones, lower your risk of complications, control your blood pressure, and manage your diabetes.

Visit Dr. Reddy for compassionate and efficient medical care for your diabetes. Conveniently book online or call today.