Discover ways to manage your diabetes.

The first step of dealing with diabetes is to educate yourself about your condition. People living with diabetes must take the reins when it comes to managing symptoms and avoiding complications. Prepare to have a lot of contact with your doctors, as they will be crucial in helping you manage your diabetes.

Know your levels
Learn the ins and outs of your blood glucose levels, cholesterol levels and blood pressure readings. These important levels help you monitor your body’s health. Ask your doctor to help you determine target readings and keep a written record of where you’re at every time you’re tested.

Manage your life
Diabetes management is all about making good choices in your day to day life. This isn’t always simple, as anyone who has tried to eat healthy or eat regularly knows. However, with diabetes, the stakes are high and it’s crucial to commit to your health and well being to avoid serious complications of diabetes.

The National Diabetes Education Program offers many online tools for managing your diabetes. Do what you can to educate yourself and stay on track.

• Eat according to the plan you’ve worked out with your doctor. Be strict and consistent with this diabetes management diet.
• Stay on top of your medications. Take your medications regularly, as directed, and never allow your prescriptions to run out.
• Stay fit. It’s important to exercise every day, and to maintain a healthy weight. If you’re struggling with your weight loss program, talk to your doctor.
• Be proactive about monitoring and doctor’s visits. Monitor your levels and talk to your doctor if you have any new symptoms, such as vision changes or tingling in your hands or feet.
• Get help. Talk to your doctor if you are feeling stressed out or depressed, even if these feelings aren’t related to your diabetes.

For more information on diabetes, visit our health library. No matter what you your questions or concerns are, we are here to help. Visit our website or call our Consult-A-Nurse® service at  1-800-446-6956.

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