Taking Care of Yourself
Taking care of your diabetes is more than just managing your blood sugar
levels. It's about taking care of your whole self; that means your eyes, heart
and feet too. Research shows that when you keep your blood sugar, blood
pressure and cholesterol levels at bay, you can prevent or delay other serious
health complications associated with diabetes.
Know your risk of heart disease
Heart disease is the most common life-threatening disease linked to diabetes.
Experts say diabetes doubles a person's risk of developing heart disease. Heart
disease is a result of arterial fat and cholesterol build-up. This build-up can
block blood from getting to the heart, and result in a potential fatal heart
attack or stroke. It can also cause poor blood flow (circulation) in the legs
and feet.
Are you at risk of kidney disease?
Have a urine test once a year for signs of kidney damage. The test measures how
much protein is in your urine. See your doctor right away if you get a bladder
or kidney infection. Signs of bladder or kidney infections are cloudy or bloody
urine, pain or burning when you urinate, and having to urinate often or in a
hurry. Back pain, chills, and fever are also signs of kidney infection.
Have an eye exam every year
If you have type 2 diabetes you need to have your eyes examined each year. Tell
your eye doctor right away if you have any problems like blurry vision or
seeing dark spots, flashing lights, or rings around lights. For those with type
1 diabetes have your eyes examined when you have had diabetes for 5 years and
every year after that first exam.
Are you showing signs of nerve damage?
Over time, high blood glucose can harm the nerves in your body. Nerve damage
can cause you to lose the feeling in your feet or to have painful, burning
feet. It can also cause pain in your legs, arms, or hands or cause problems
with eating, going to the bathroom, or having sex. Nerve damage can also lead
to amputations.
Check your bare feet daily
Look for cuts, sores, bumps, or red spots. Use a mirror or ask a family member
for help if you have trouble seeing the bottoms of your feet. Proper foot care
and regular visits to a doctor can prevent foot and leg sores and ensure that
any that do appear don't become infected and painful. Make sure that your shoes
fit well and socks or stockings aren't tight.
Don't forget about your pearly whites
See your dentist twice a year. Diabetes can lead to infections in your gums and
the bones that hold your teeth in place. Like all infections, gum infections
can cause blood glucose to rise. Without treatment, teeth may become loose and
fall out.
