Diabetes is a condition in which patients have elevated blood sugar as a result of problems with insulin, which is a hormone that regulates glucose in the blood. Diabetics either don't produce enough insulin or may be resistant to its effects. Diabetics constantly need to monitor and treat their disease to avoid life threatening complications.
Monitoring
Patients with type 1 or type 2 diabetes need to monitor their blood sugar levels to ensure that their diabetes is under control, Family Doctor explains. Patients should check their blood glucose levels several times per day to determine if they need to change their diet, medications or exercise routine. These measurements can be done using a small sample of blood and a glucose monitoring machine. In addition, patients can have levels of a protein called hemoglobin A1c measured, which reflects a patient's average blood glucose levels over the previous several months.
Insulin
Patients with type 1 diabetes are unable to produce insulin. As a result, administration of synthetic insulin is the mainstay of treatment for type 1 diabetes, the Journal of the American Medical Association explains. Insulin can also be used to treat type 2 diabetes, which is a condition marked by resistance to the naturally produced insulin. Insulin must be injected into the bloodstream because the digestive system breaks it down. Insulin can be injected using a syringe, or it can be continuously infused into the bloodstream using a pump.
Other Medications
Type 2 diabetes, the Mayo Clinic explains, can also be treated using certain oral medications. Metformin is a medication that increases the amount of insulin that the pancreas produces, which helps lower blood sugar levels. Medications known as sulfonylureas can also be used to increase the body's response to insulin. These medications must be taken daily for maximum effect.
Lifestyle Changes
Diabetics should eat a diet low in fats and processed sugars and high in fiber, vegetables and fruits. Patients can work with a dietitian to create a meal plan that keeps their blood sugar levels at acceptable levels. The Mayo Clinic also recommends regular aerobic exercise for patients, as this pulls sugar out of the blood. Physical activity also can reduce a patient's insulin resistance and can help ward off some of the complications of diabetes.
Preventing Complications
Patients with diabetes need to regularly inspect their feet for any cuts or sores, the Patient Education Institute explains. Diabetics are more prone to nerve damage and severe infections in their feet, which can lead to gangrene and amputation. Patients also will need to have their vision tested regularly to screen for damage to the retina. Patients with poorly controlled diabetes are also at risk of developing kidney and cardiovascular disease. As a result, patients should receive regular physical exams.
