Understand your condition

For most adults the target is below 7%. Older patients or those with hypoglycaemia risk may be given a relaxed target of 7.5–8%. The number is individualised — never copied from someone else's report.

Fasting plasma glucose ≥126 mg/dL, a 2-hour post-glucose value ≥200 mg/dL, or HbA1c ≥6.5% on two occasions. We also check lipids, kidney function and urine albumin at diagnosis.

Remission is realistic for many patients diagnosed within the last five years, through sustained weight reduction, resistance training and calibrated nutrition. It requires structured supervision, not a crash diet.

Annually: dilated retinal examination, urine albumin-creatinine ratio, serum creatinine, foot examination with monofilament testing, and a lipid profile.

Half non-starchy vegetables, a quarter protein (dal, egg, fish, paneer), a quarter whole grains. Eat vegetables and protein before rice or roti — this measurably blunts the post-meal glucose spike.

Persistent fatigue, unexplained weight gain, dry skin, hair fall, constipation, cold intolerance, low mood and heavier menstrual periods. Any two together warrant a TSH test.

TSH first. If abnormal, free T4 (and free T3 where hyperthyroidism is suspected), plus anti-TPO antibodies to identify autoimmune Hashimoto's thyroiditis.

For autoimmune hypothyroidism, usually yes — but the dose is adjusted over time. Transient thyroiditis after infection or pregnancy often resolves fully within a year.

On an empty stomach with water, at least 45 minutes before food, and separated from calcium or iron supplements by four hours. Retest 6–8 weeks after any dose change.

Significantly. Untreated hypothyroidism increases miscarriage and developmental risk, so TSH targets are tighter in pregnancy and reviewed every trimester.

Fever above 103°F, lasting beyond three days, or accompanied by breathlessness, rash, confusion, persistent vomiting or reduced urination needs same-day evaluation.

Seated, back supported, feet flat, after five minutes of rest. Two readings morning and evening for seven days. Treatment decisions are based on that average, not one clinic reading.

CBC, fasting glucose and HbA1c, lipid profile, liver and kidney function, TSH, vitamin D and B12, urine routine, ECG, and a blood-pressure and BMI review.

No. Most upper respiratory infections are viral and resolve in 5–7 days. Unnecessary antibiotics drive resistance and disturb gut health.

It is largely reversible: 7–10% body weight reduction, elimination of sugary drinks and refined carbohydrates, 150 minutes of weekly activity, and monitoring of liver enzymes every six months.