The pancreas produces insulin enabling glucose to enter cells for energy. In diabetes, the pancreas produces either an inadequate amount of insulin or doesn't produce any at all. Glucose builds up in the blood stream and, if not treated, causes life-threatening complications. Lifestyle alterations and following specific guidelines reduce the chances for potentially serious problems associated with the disorder.
Medical Identification
Carry or wear medical identification such as a bracelet or tag with information regarding the disorder, states "Merck Manual Home Edition." Diabetic information on the medical identification facilitates quicker life-saving treatment if any adverse reactions happen. Assemble a kit and include Glucagon with instructions on administration if a low blood sugar or hypoglycemic emergency occurs, suggests the Mayo Clinic.
Education of the Disorder
The Mayo Clinic recommends learning about diabetes and making a strict commitment in following the proper course of treatment. Being properly educated helps in reducing and avoiding complications. Meet with a certified diabetes educator or talk to your doctor. Ask them for literature to help you understand how you can best manage diabetes symptoms while maintaining a good quality of life.
Proper Diet
Diet management and consumption of a balanced, healthy diet are necessary in the management of diabetes as reported by "Merck Manual Home Edition." Meeting with a dietitian and developing a diet limiting sweets and saturated fats help in maintaining a healthy weight.
Exercise
Incorporating an appropriate amount of physical activity into a daily routine helps in controlling blood sugar levels within the normal range. Weight loss attained through exercise can be beneficial to a diabetic's overall health.
Check Blood Sugar Levels
The National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse (NDIC) recommends monitoring blood sugar levels frequently as many factors can cause a fluctuation in blood sugar. Blood sugar levels are affected by diet, exercise, stress, illnesses, medications and time of day. Devices requiring a drop of blood from a simple prick of the finger or other areas of the body can compute blood sugar levels quickly into an easy-to-read digital format. "Merck Manual Home Edition" suggests keeping a record of blood sugar levels and informing a doctor or nurse of the readings as adjustments are sometimes needed in the course of treatment.
Maintain Regular Doctor Visits
The Mayo Clinic recommends scheduling and attending regular check-ups for the disorder. Diabetes-related complications and any problems experienced are addressed during the doctor visit. The doctor tests for other medical problems commonly accompanying diabetes such as high blood pressure or high cholesterol. The presence of any non-healing wounds and possible problems with the skin, especially the feet, are assessed by the doctor. The guideline of diabetes management, says the NDIC, includes maintaining proper functioning levels of blood glucose, blood pressure and cholesterol.
