Diabetes
Diabetes mellitus is a group of metabolic conditions characterised by high blood glucose due to defects in insulin secretion, insulin action, or both. Type 2 diabetes (accounting for 90% of cases) is closely linked to lifestyle factors and carries significant long-term cardiovascular, renal and neurological risk if inadequately managed. Early, structured specialist review can delay or prevent these complications.
What it is
Diabetes mellitus is a group of metabolic conditions characterised by high blood glucose due to defects in insulin secretion, insulin action, or both. Type 2 diabetes (accounting for 90% of cases) is closely linked to lifestyle factors and carries significant long-term cardiovascular, renal and neurological risk if inadequately managed. Early, structured specialist review can delay or prevent these complications.
Symptoms and signs
- Increased thirst and frequent urination (polydipsia and polyuria).
- Unexplained weight loss — more prominent in type 1.
- Fatigue, blurred vision, slow-healing wounds.
- Recurrent infections (especially urinary tract and skin).
- Numbness or tingling in hands or feet (peripheral neuropathy) in established disease.
How we investigate
HbA1c and fasting plasma glucose (first-line). Fasting lipid profile, kidney function (eGFR, ACR), liver function, thyroid function, full blood count. In type 1 or atypical presentations: C-peptide, anti-GAD and anti-islet antibodies. Urine ACR for early nephropathy screening.
Treatment options at The Vesey
- Dietary and lifestyle review — evidence-based calorie restriction and low-glycaemic eating patterns for type 2 remission.
- Metformin and oral hypoglycaemics — including SGLT-2 inhibitors (empagliflozin, dapagliflozin) with added cardiovascular and renal benefit.
- GLP-1 receptor agonists — semaglutide and liraglutide for combined glucose control and weight reduction.
- Insulin optimisation — basal-bolus regimens, flash glucose monitoring and closed-loop systems for type 1.
- Diabetes complication screening — renal, retinal, neurological and foot assessment coordinated with relevant specialists.
When to see a specialist
- HbA1c ≥48 mmol/mol (confirmed diabetes) requiring specialist management
- Pre-diabetes (HbA1c 42–47) with strong risk factors or family history
- Type 1 or insulin-dependent diabetes not achieving glycaemic targets
- Suspected MODY or atypical diabetes presentation
- Pregnancy with diabetes or pre-existing diabetes requiring preconception review
See a endocrinology specialist within 7 days. No GP referral required. Learn more →
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a GP referral to see a diabetes specialist at The Vesey? +
No. You can self-refer directly to Dr Yogesh Kalaiah, Consultant Endocrinologist. We will write to your GP with your consent.
How much does a diabetes consultation cost at The Vesey? +
£280 with Dr Yogesh Kalaiah. HbA1c + fasting glucose + insulin panel available same-day for £95. Self-pay and insurance accepted (BUPA, Vitality, AXA, WPA, Cigna, Aviva, Healix).
How quickly can I be seen? +
Same-week endocrinology appointments are typical, including Sundays. Blood tests can be processed same-day in most cases.
Will my health insurance cover diabetes management? +
BUPA, Vitality, AXA, WPA, Cigna, Aviva and Healix typically cover endocrinology consultations and associated investigations. We pre-authorise at booking.
What is HbA1c? +
The HbA1c blood test measures average blood glucose over 3 months. Normal below 42 mmol/mol; pre-diabetes 42–47; diabetes ≥48.
What is the difference between type 1 and type 2 diabetes? +
Type 1 is autoimmune insulin deficiency (usually younger onset); type 2 is insulin resistance (usually older, linked to weight and lifestyle).
Can type 2 diabetes be reversed? +
Yes, in early stages. Weight loss of 10–15% body weight via calorie restriction can achieve remission (normal HbA1c without medication) in many patients.
How much does a diabetes consultation cost? +
£280 with Dr Yogesh Kalaiah (Consultant Endocrinologist). HbA1c + fasting glucose + insulin panel available same-day for £95.
Book an appointment
When to see a specialist
See a specialist if your HbA1c is above 42 mmol/mol, if you are struggling to control blood glucose on current medication, or if you have type 1 diabetes that is not meeting your target range.
Cost and pathway
£280 with Dr Yogesh Kalaiah (Consultant Endocrinologist). HbA1c + fasting glucose + insulin panel from £95 same-day. Self-pay and insurance accepted (BUPA, Vitality, AXA, WPA, Cigna, Aviva, Healix).
- Open 7 days including Sundays — 8am to 8pm, no weekend surcharge
- No GP referral required — book directly with our endocrinology team
- Sutton Coldfield location — serving Birmingham, Walsall, Tamworth, Lichfield and the West Midlands
- CQC-regulated — rated 4.88/5 on Doctify from 700+ verified reviews
View our endocrinology services →
Sutton Coldfield · Birmingham · Walsall · Tamworth · Lichfield · West Midlands · Open 7 days 8am–8pm
Open 7 days · 8am–8pm · 0121 387 3727