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Treating Diabetes

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What is diabetes?

• In diabetes, either the body does not produce insulin or is not able to use the insulin properly. As a result the level of sugar in the blood rises. Normal blood sugar level is 70-105
• Uncontrolled diabetes can cause serious problems with:
  • Heart & circulation
  • Eyes
  • Kidneys
  • Nerves
  • Sexual ability

Treatment of diabetes

• Exercise 4 or more times per week (walking, climbing stairs, jumping rope)
• Weight loss and improved nutrition
  • Reduce fat such as red meat, cheese, ice cream, sweet rolls
  • Increase fiber such as whole-grain bread, cooked beans, fruits, vegetables
  • Eat more fruits and vegetables
  • Cut down on sugar such as soda, desserts, and alcohol
• Other important self-care things to do
  • Wear hard-toe shoes to protect your feet. Do not go bare-foot, even at home
  • Get yearly eye check
  • Check blood pressure frequently and be sure it is less than 130/85
  • Watch for skin problems and go to clinic if these happen

Medications

• Most people never have to take insulin shots.
• Medications should be taken exactly as prescribed. Most people take one or more pills before eating 1-2 times/day. Never skip a meal and always take your medicine.
• Signs that your medicine is causing your blood sugar to go too low include weakness, headache, hunger, vision changes, dizziness, and anxiety. If this happens, eat something sweet and get medical help.

Signs that the medicine is not working

• Blurred vision
• Increased infections of the skin
• Numbness, tingling in arms or legs
• Gradual increase in thirst, hunger or urination
• Unintended weight loss

Today my blood sugar is: ___________. This is normal ________ or high _________