Take Control of Your Diabetes
Managing your diabetes is a full-time commitment, but it’s worth the effort. By staying on top of your condition, you can reduce the chances of developing serious complications, like damage to the blood vessels, eyes, nerves and kidneys. Schedule regular provider visits (at least once each year). Routine health care and tests are a part of diabetes management. Make the most of your visits by learning as much as you can about your disease. Follow your provider’s recommendations for monitoring and managing your blood sugar and be sure to ask your provider about the following tests and screenings:
Tests and Screenings
Blood pressure screenings
Diabetes can damage your blood vessels, leading to high blood pressure. This can increase your risk for a heart attack or stroke. A normal blood pressure reading is less than 120/80.
Complete foot exam
High blood sugar can cause poor blood flow in your feet and nerve damage. You might experience tingling, pain or loss of feeling (which could be dangerous if a blister or cut were to go unnoticed and turn into a serious infection).
A1C blood testing
One of the most common tests for diabetes, the A1C test measures your average blood sugar level over the past three months.
Kidney function testing
If blood flow to the kidneys is reduced, they may become unable to properly filter waste and toxins, which can lead to kidney disease.
Dilated eye exam
Diabetes can put you at risk for eye problems like diabetic retinopathy and glaucoma. Regular eye exams help you catch problems early on, before they become serious.
Diabetes medications
Your medication needs may change over time. Make sure to discuss your medications and how to take them.
Commit to a Healthy Lifestyle
While your health care providers are here to support you in managing your diabetes, it’s ultimately up to you to make smart lifestyle choices that will set you up for success.
- Don’t smoke. Besides increasing your risk for type 2 diabetes, smoking can lead to serious conditions, like kidney disease, stroke, nerve damage and eye disease.
- Take care of your teeth and gums. Diabetes can make you prone to gum infections. At a minimum, brush your teeth twice a day, floss once a day and see your dentist at least every six months.
- Eat a low-sodium diet. Limit your salt intake to help keep blood pressure and blood sugar levels under control.
- Follow a diabetic diet. Choose healthier carbohydrates, such as whole grains, over refined carbohydrates. Cut back on added sugar. Eat less red and processed meat and opt for more vegetables in your diet. Talk to your doctor about the right dietary changes for you.
- Manage and maintain a healthy weight.
- Build regular exercise into your daily routine.
- Take your diabetes medications as directed by your provider.
- Monitor your blood glucose. Keep a diary of readings to share with your health care provider.
- Protect your feet from diabetes complications:
- Wash and dry your feet daily, especially between your toes. (Avoid soaking, which can cause dryness.)
- Moisturize your feet with lotion or petroleum jelly. Don’t apply it between your toes (unless you are using a medicated cream) — too much moisture could lead to an infection.
- Check your feet regularly for sores, blisters, calluses or unusual changes to the skin.
- Always wear shoes, even indoors.
- Manage your stress. Stress can make it harder to maintain your diabetes routine. Try relaxation techniques, like yoga, meditation or listening to soothing music. Don’t be afraid to reach out for help — a diabetes support group is a great way to meet others going through the same thing, who can offer encouragement and guidance.
Make a daily habit of managing your diabetes. By taking an active approach to your care and adopting smart lifestyle habits, you can keep your diabetes under control and live a full, healthy life.
If you would like some additional support managing your diabetes, our Care Management team can assist you. Please call 303-602-2184 or submit a Care Management Self-Referral Form.