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Diabetes Mellitus
At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Scott provides expert diabetes care, combining personalized meal planning, advanced medications and minimally invasive treatments. His comprehensive approach monitors blood sugar, kidney health and lifestyle factors to optimize treatment and improve long-term outcomes for patients.
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Family history of diabetes or prediabetes
Overweight or obesity
Physical inactivity
High blood pressure or high cholesterol
Age over 45
History of gestational diabetes
Signs and Symptoms
Frequent thirst and dry mouth
Urinating often
Unexplained weight loss or gain
Fatigue or weakness
Blurry vision
Slow-healing cuts or infections
Tingling or numbness in hands or feet
How Dr. Scott Diagnoses This Condition?
Dr. Scott uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Exam
He reviews your personal and family history, assesses symptoms like excessive thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight changes, and evaluates risk factors such as BMI, blood pressure, and lifestyle.
Blood Tests
We measure fasting plasma glucose and Hemoglobin A1C to gauge your average blood sugar over three months.
Glucose Tolerance Testing
If results are borderline, an oral glucose tolerance test tracks your blood sugar response over two hours after a standardized glucose drink.
Kidney and Urine Tests
eGFR and serum creatinine assess kidney function.
Urine microalbumin screening detects early signs of diabetic kidney damage.
Advanced Testing (if needed)
C-peptide levels and diabetes-related autoantibody panels help differentiate type 1 from type 2 diabetes or uncover other rare forms.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for diabetes mellitus.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications
Personalized meal plans to balance carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats
Instruction on carb counting and reading food labels
Recommendations for high-fiber foods like whole grains, vegetables, and beans
Exercise programs-walking or light workouts in Houston's parks
2. Medications
Metformin to help your body use insulin more effectively
SGLT2 inhibitors or GLP-1 agonists to lower blood sugar
Insulin therapy when diet, exercise, and oral agents aren't enough
3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures
Endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty for weight loss and improved glycemic control
Non-surgical outpatient procedure to reduce stomach volume
Ongoing support from our dietitians and diabetes educators
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ICD-10 code for type 2 diabetes?
The ICD-10 code for type 2 diabetes is E11, used to document diabetes mellitus without specifying complications.
How do I know if I have diabetes?
Common signs include excessive thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, and blurred vision. A simple blood test-measuring fasting glucose and A1C-confirms the diagnosis.
Can diabetes harm my kidneys?
Yes. Prolonged high blood sugar can damage the small blood vessels in your kidneys. Early urine and blood tests help detect kidney issues before they become serious.
What foods should I avoid?
Avoid sugary drinks, processed snacks, white bread, and fatty meats. Instead, focus on whole foods such as vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
Does Dr. Scott offer weight-loss procedures?
Yes. For eligible patients with type 2 diabetes and obesity, Dr. Scott performs endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty, a non-surgical outpatient procedure that reduces stomach size to aid weight loss and blood sugar control.
How often should I check my blood sugar?
The frequency depends on your individual treatment plan. Many patients begin by testing once or twice daily until their levels stabilize. Dr. Scott will tailor the schedule to your needs.
Can type 2 diabetes go away?
Some people achieve normal blood sugar levels through significant weight loss and sustained lifestyle changes. Regular follow-ups are essential to maintain remission.
