Treatment for diabetes includes education from health care providers followed by self-management. Diabetic patients learn to recognize and treat their blood glucose levels, when to take medication, what and when to eat to control weight and how to take care of their general health. Treatment is essential to reduce symptoms and prevent serious complications that may include heart disease, kidney failure, amputation of limbs and blindness.
Medication
Type 1 diabetes causes a deficiency in the production of insulin needed to regulate the level of glucose, or blood sugar, in the blood for energy. Intensive insulin therapy helps achieve near-normal blood sugar, according to the University of Michigan Kellogg Eye Center. Episodes of low blood sugar are kept to a minimum through multiple daily injections of insulin. For some people, insulin pumps deliver a steady flow of insulin during the day. Medications are taken by mouth for type 2 diabetes, in which the body cannot produce insulin properly. Type 2 diabetics use glucose-lowering pills. The medications vary, depending on each patient, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Self-Monitoring
For type 1 and type 2 diabetes, blood glucose levels are monitored several times a day or several times a week, depending on each person's condition. Diabetics use glucose meters to read their levels. Blood sugar levels can fluctuate from responses to meals, exercise, or lack of sensitivity to insulin. Diabetics are at risk for low blood sugar, or hypoglycemia, which usually has symptoms such as dizziness, weakness or hunger.
Diet
Health care providers and dietitians work with diabetics to develop a proper diet. Diabetics learn how much fat, protein and carbohydrates they need in their daily diets, according to the New York Times. Type 1 diabetes usually calls for consistency in the types of food eaten, and eating at the same time of the day to prevent fluctuating blood sugar levels. A well-balanced, low-fat diet usually works for people with type 2 diabetes.
Exercise
Physical activity keeps blood sugar, blood pressure and weight under control for diabetics who are at risk for heart disease. Patients need to check with their doctors before beginning an exercise program. Changing the intensity of exercise also means diabetics may have to change their diets or medication to keep blood sugar levels regulated.
Foot Care
Foot problems associated with diabetes include slow healing wounds or sores, and increased risk of infection. Diabetics should take special care in examining their feet for injuries or infections that may develop to avoid severe problems, including amputation.
