Diabetes is an invisible illness, in terms of what it is doing to your body behind the scenes. You don’t just take your insulin and you will be fine. Many parts of your body can become severely damaged, and therefore you need to get regular check-ups. Many of the issues you can face as a diabetes sufferer can be dealt with if addressed early. 

Take Care of Your Heart

Blood Pressure should be monitored closely as diabetes sufferers are more prone to high blood pressure. High blood pressure can cause heart attacks or strokes. Having diabetes means that you are more likely to get heart disease, therefore, a cholesterol test should also be done every year. An electrocardiogram will also confirm if you have any issues with your heart.

Do Not Forget Your Legs and Feet

More than fifty percent of diabetes sufferers lose feeling in their feet and lower limbs. Therefore, a foot exam is regularly required. The examination should check your reflexes, check for any infections or sores. They should check for the loss of feeling. Any ulcers should also be examined by a podiatrist such as Harford Lower Extremity Specialists. You can schedule an appointment online if you live in Bel Air or the surrounding areas. Foot and leg problems are a major concern for diabetes sufferers, and some eventually lose part or all of their lower limbs because of complications. 

Take Care of those Eyes and Teeth

Diabetes sufferers can also have issues with their eyes, such as glaucoma, cataracts, or retinopathy. If you catch these early, then you can preserve your sight. Gum disease is also a frequent consequence of diabetes sufferers. This can lead to other health issues and make your blood sugar harder to manage. 

Diabetes can also affect the kidneys so ensure that you have a blood test to determine any issues at least once a year. Blood sugar levels should be monitored regularly, and you can even get a machine to do this at home. An A1C test should also be done twice a year; this will produce a reading that can allow a doctor to monitor your blood sugar level activity. You are aiming for a score of around seven percent on this test. The doctor will discuss his findings with you, and you can make a plan together.

Diet and Exercise

In the background, you should also be doing everything in your power to reduce your blood sugar. Eating healthily and exercise should be part of your daily routine. Make sure you attend all of your health checks and take the advice that you are given. Smoking also increases blood sugar. If you are a smoker you should try to stop as soon as possible, again you can get help with this. 

There are many support groups for diabetes sufferers. These groups will make you feel less alone and also give you great tips on how to manage your diabetes and any other underlying health issues. They will also give you the name of the best help around for any issues and concerns that you may have. Remember If you are having any issues consult a medical professional immediately.

Are you or a loved one diabetic?

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