Diabetes is a progressive condition that can have some dangerous
complications. To avoid complications of diabetes, you have to control your diabetes. Complications of diabetes include nerve problems, kidney problems, eye problems, foot problems and heart and blood vessel disease. But, it doesn't have to be this way.
You can help prevent complications of diabetes by keeping your
blood glucose levels under tight control. Your blood pressure and blood fats
(including cholesterol) should be monitored regularly.
Although keeping blood sugar levels down is not always easy,
it's still very important to aim for very good control. You may not reach ideal
blood sugar levels, but any improvement will help you reduce the risk of
diabetic complications.
Good blood glucose control depends entirely upon you. Your
diabetes care team can help and advise you, but you are ultimately the one who
has to take responsibility for your health - both now and in the long run.
Tips for tighter control
·
Keep a close watch on your diet and weight - think low fat, low
sugar, high fiber and high complex carbohydrate
·
Always check your blood sugar daily. If you think it’s necessary
you can check it several times a day.
·
Exercise regularly. Find something you enjoy that won't be a
chore
·
Are you a smoker? You
really need to quit asap! Get help and support if you need it.
·
Make sure to keep your appointments with your doctor so your
blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol levels can l be monitored regularly
If you are doing the
things you should, but your blood sugar remains higher than it ought to be,
discuss with your health care team what options you can explore to help bring
it down. Managing and controlling diabetes is a real challenge. You try to
avoid the complications of diabetes while attempting to live your life as
usual. It can be done, just hang in there!
