Health Topics

Taking Care of Your Diabetes

People who have type 2 diabetes are prone to many serious health problems such as:
  • Kidney disease (nephropathy)
  • Heart disease, heart attack, and stroke
  • Eye problems that result in blindness
  • Nerve damage affecting legs and feet (neuropathy)
  • Diseases of gums and teeth
  • Pneumonia
Many of these conditions happen because of high sugar (glucose) levels in the blood. Because high blood sugar makes it more difficult for people to fight off germs, people who have diabetes easily get infections, and cuts, wounds, or infections take a long time to heal. For example, flu and pneumonia can be so severe that it may require a hospital stay and even result in death.

High blood sugar and high cholesterol make people susceptible to heart disease, heart attack or stroke.

What is Cholesterol?

Cholesterol is a fat-like substance in the blood. It is needed for the body to function properly, but too much of certain kinds of cholesterol increases the risk for heart disease and stroke.

LDL, HDL, and triglycerides are the three main types of cholesterol you should watch for. Combining these three is often referred to as total cholesterol. LDL (low-density lipoproteins), also known as “bad cholesterol”, can result in blocked blood vessels, heart attack or stroke. HDL (high-density lipoproteins), also known as “good cholesterol”, helps keep your blood vessels from getting blocked.

What to Do to Stay Healthy Even When You Have Type 2 Diabetes?

About Your Blood Sugar: Check your blood sugar regularly, keep a record of it, and discuss your progress with your health care provider. In general, adults with diabetes should aim for these blood sugar levels, but ask your doctor to help you determine the best blood sugar goals for you:
  • Before eating: between 90 and 130
  • After eating: less than 180
The A1C test measures your average blood sugar levels for the past 2-3 months, and it should be less than 7. Have this test done at least every six months.

About Your Cholesterol: Cholesterol is a fat-like substance in the blood. It is needed for the body to function properly, but too much of certain kinds of cholesterol increases the risk for heart disease and stroke.

LDL, HDL, and triglycerides are the three main types of cholesterol you should watch for. Combining these three is often referred to as total cholesterol. LDL (low-density lipoproteins), also known as “bad cholesterol”, can result in blocked blood vessels, heart attack or stroke. HDL (high-density lipoproteins), also known as “good cholesterol”, helps keep your blood vessels from getting blocked. Aim to keep your:
  • HDL more than 40 for men, more than 50 for women
  • LDL less than 100
  • Triglycerides less than 150, and
  • Total cholesterol less than 200.
In addition to cholesterol lowering medications, eating a healthful diet with less saturated fats, trans fats, and cholesterol, and being physically active help reach these goals

At the Doctor’s Office:
  • Ask your doctor about how often and when you should check your blood sugar because this can be different for each person

  • At least once a year, have your doctor check your urine and blood for kidney disease

  • Have a dilated eye exam once a year to detect early signs of eye problems

  • Have your blood pressure taken at every visit and aim for it to be less than 130/80 mmHg. A blood pressure level of 120/80 mmHg is considered normal

  • Have your feet examined at every visit

  • Get your flu vaccine every year, and one lifetime pneumonia vaccine

  • Visit your dentist twice a year or more to prevent gum disease
Ask your doctor to refer you to a registered dietitian or a diabetes educator to learn more about diet and how to control your diabetes. Many insurance plans and Medicare cover these services, so check with your insurance first.

Source:Standards of Medical Care in Diabetes - 2007; 30 (Suppl) :54

For More Information

Diabetes Risk Test - American Diabetes Association

General Information - American Diabetes Association

Diabetes Prevention - American Diabetes Association

Healthy Recipes - National Institute of Health

General Information - Center for Disease Control and Prevetnion

To Find a Dietitian - American Dietetic Association

To Find a Diabetes Educator - American Association of Diabetes Educators




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