Diabetes is one of the leading causes of death world-wide. Diabetes happens when our blood glucose, which is called blood sugar level, is too high. Blood glucose is the main source of energy that comes from food we eat. Insulin, a hormone made by the pancreas to transform, glucose from food to energy. This is a long term disease. However, we can manage this long term disease very well, if we can follow the right practices. Knowledge, about what to do, can be beneficial to control and manage diabetes. These steps are simple but important. Following them regularly can help us to control diabetes.
1. Regular blood tests:
By measuring blood sugar regularly, we can track our blood sugar level. The average blood sugar level, after an over-night fasting, is less than 100 mgs/dl. A1c blood testing, which means the average blood sugar level over a period of 3 months. The A1c level for the people with diabetes should be 7% or less. This is an average of blood sugar, which is nearby 150 mgs/dl. This routine blood sugar measuring significantly can help us to control blood sugar levels.
2. Regular urine tests:
Urine tests are usually recommended once per year for the diabetic patients. This helps to find out any damage to kidneys. The presence of protein, called albumin in the urine, is called Microalbuminuria. This is an important finding that the diabetic patients should be concerned about. Both blood sugar and blood pressure must be strictly controlled to avoid further damage to the kidneys.
3. Regular eye checkup:
One more important organ that can be damaged by a high sugar level is the eyes. Regular screening of the eyes can help us to identify any early damages to the back of the eye, which is called Retina. Usually a retinal exam is recommended for diabetic patients every one to three years. Diabetic retinopathy can cause blindness. Early detection can help to make the necessary steps to avoid the progression of further damage to the retina. Blood sugar and blood pressure must be well controlled to avoid further damage.
4. Regular physical examinations
Regular physical checkup by the health care provider are crucial. This can be helpful to identify any damages caused by diabetes. Neuropathy is another common complication of diabetes. It can cause damage to the nerves. Regular Monofilament testing once in a year can help us to identify any nerve damage. Nerve damage can present as, numbness, weakness, tingling sensation or even pain. This is typically occurring in the hands and legs.
5. Regular exercises
Physical exercises, in daily basis, can be highly effective in controlling blood sugar levels. When we do exercise, our muscles need energy. Then the muscles get the energy from the sugar within our blood. This helps to lower the blood sugar levels. At least two and half an hour of moderate intensity exercise per week can be highly effective to lower the blood sugar levels. Regular exercises can help us to reduce weight. Studies have shown that reducing weight can prevent diabetes in people who are at risk.
6. Monitoring low blood sugar levels
One more important condition in managing diabetes is Hypoglycaemia. Hypoglycaemia is low blood sugar level. This is a dangerous, life-threatening complication seen in diabetic patients. To avoid this always have a snack standby. When our blood sugar levels are low we can have symptoms, like trembling, sweating, feeling hungry and anxious. Some people don’t feel these symptoms and, they can simply pass out due to low sugar levels. The best way to control low blood sugar levels is to regularly check the blood sugar levels and be always ready to treat low blood sugar. It would have, if we have always carry fast acting carbohydrates like glucose tablets or a candy. However, after the episode, we should inform our health care provider to get more help to avoid any future episodes.
Following these simple steps help us to get control of our diabetes. Managing diabetes well can promote to live happy and healthy lifestyle.
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