Diabetes is a disorder in which the body’s ability to produce or respond to the insulin, the hormone that regulates blood sugar levels-is impaired. Insulin helps your body turn food into energy. If you have diabetes, the level of glucose (sugar) in your blood over time can damage your heart, kidneys, eyes, nerves, gums, and teeth. This can develop into serious health problems including heart disease, blindness, kidney failure, and lower-limb amputations.
Despite all of these risks, people with diabetes can live long, healthy lives. By following a few simple guidelines, you can take care of yourself and manage your diabetes. Here are eight things that all people with diabetes should know.
Your Feet Should Be Protected
Socks can be used to protect your feet if you are diabetic. The socks designed for diabetics can last much longer than normal socks which don’t take much time to wear out. Most times many people with diabetes neglect their feet. They do not have the same sensation as non-diabetics are used to having.
Disease progression can lead to loss of feeling in the feet which makes it hard to identify injuries or changes that need treatment. Also, these individuals are at risk for developing foot ulcers, which can lead to infection and even amputation.
That is why socks are so important because socks ensure a good fit and protect the foot from injuries. They have been tested in clinics and hospitals to withstand day-to-day use by people with diabetes because they were made with the person’s comfort, safety, and well-being in mind.
There are socks that have a seamless toe and socks with a non-binding top so they do not cut off circulation. The socks also wick moisture away from the feet, which is a big plus for diabetics. Feet that are wet and sweaty are more prone to developing fungus and skin problems.
Diabetes Can Lead To Serious Health Problems.
If left untreated, diabetes can lead to a number of serious health problems, including heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, and nerve damage. It is important to keep your blood sugar levels under control and to see your Houston Kidney Doctor regularly for check-ups to help prevent these problems.
It is a lifelong condition that requires ongoing treatment and care. You can still have a full and fun life with diabetes, but it’s vital that you take the right steps to manage your condition.
You Can Lower Your Risk Of Developing Diabetes Complications
People with diabetes should work closely with their doctors to develop a treatment plan that works for them. This plan should include regular blood sugar monitoring, diet, and exercise plans, and medication as needed.
For example, in order to help lower the risk of developing diabetes complications, people with type 2 diabetes should monitor their blood sugar levels when they are not fasting. Some factors that can affect your treatment plan include age, weight, family history, level of activity, diet, whether you smoke or take alcohol, and how well you manage your disease.
Exercise Is Important for people with diabetes
Regular exercise is an important part of managing diabetes. It can help you control your blood sugar levels and lose weight if needed. It’s best to get at least 30 minutes of exercise most days of the week. If you have trouble fitting in regular exercise, try to break it up into smaller chunks of time throughout the day.
For example, take a brisk 10-minute walk three times a day. Swimming is also a great option for people with type 2 diabetes because it can help them lose weight and stay in shape. It may also be helpful to speak with your doctor before beginning any exercise program, especially if you haven’t exercised regularly in the past or have other health conditions.
Diabetes Can Affect Different Parts Of The Body
Diabetes can affect different parts of your body in different ways. For example, it can cause nerve damage (neuropathy) in your hands and feet, and it can affect your vision by causing eye problems like cataracts and glaucoma.
If you have diabetes, you should keep an eye out for these symptoms and see your doctor right away if you experience any of them. They might prescribe you the use of special medical aids, such as insoles for diabetics or other similar medical devices.
You should always monitor your blood sugar levels
People with diabetes need to regularly test their blood sugar levels, which can be done using a machine called a glucometer. You should do this before meals and at bedtime, or as directed by your doctor.
Your doctor will work out the best way for you to monitor your blood sugar levels based on your lifestyle and how well your diabetes is controlled. Making this a habit will help you avoid serious health problems.
Healthy Diet Is Important For People With Diabetes
Following a healthy diet is important for everyone, but it’s especially important for people with diabetes. A healthy diet can help you control your blood sugar levels and lose weight if needed. It’s important to eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and to avoid sugary foods, including candy and baked goods.
If you take insulin or diabetes pills, you need to monitor your blood sugar levels more closely if you eat large amounts of high-carbohydrate foods, like pasta and bread.
Consult Your Doctor About Your Pregnancy
People with diabetes who are planning a pregnancy should speak to their doctors before conceiving so they can discuss the best ways for you to manage your condition. If you have diabetes and are already pregnant, it’s important to keep your blood sugar levels under control so that you and your baby stay healthy. You may need to take medication and follow a special diet while pregnant.
Diabetic patients should be aware of the eight things listed above in order to better manage their condition and reduce the risk of developing diabetes complications. A healthy diet, regular exercise, protecting your feet, and blood sugar monitoring are all essential components of managing diabetes, and pregnant women with diabetes should consult their doctor to ensure a healthy pregnancy.