Diabetic Care: Ways to avoid complications
Diabetes is a chronic condition that occurs when the body does not produce enough insulin or cannot use insulin effectively, resulting in elevated blood sugar levels. While there is currently no cure for diabetes, it can be managed to improve symptoms and prevent complications through medications and lifestyle adjustments. In this blog, we will discuss some key ways to avoid complications.
Make the Choice to Stay Committed to Managing Diabetes:
Managing diabetes requires dedication and motivation, but remember that you are in control. Staying committed means making mindful choices, including a healthy diet and maintaining adequate physical activity. Your primary care provider, dietitian, and diabetes care and education specialist can support you with resources and guidance, but it’s up to you to stay motivated and consistent.
Quit Smoking:
If you smoke, quitting is one of the most beneficial steps you can take for your health. Smoking significantly increases the risk of complications associated with diabetes, such as heart disease, reduced blood flow to the legs and feet (which can cause infections and ulcers), nerve damage, kidney disease, and even premature death. Quitting smoking can be challenging, but the positive impact on your health is well worth the effort.
Keeping Blood Pressure and Cholesterol in check
Like diabetes, high blood pressure can damage your blood vessels. High cholesterol is also a concern and with diabetes the damage is particularly more rapid. When these conditions team up, they can lead to a heart attack, stroke or other life-threatening conditions. This is why it is important to eat a healthy, reduced-fat and low salt diet, and avoid excess alcohol. These lifestyle measures can help significantly control high blood pressure and cholesterol. If necessary, your health care provider may even prescribe medications to keep the balance.
Pay Attention to Your Body, Especially Foot Care
Diabetic foot care is crucial, as high blood sugar can cause nerve damage and reduce blood flow to the feet. This can make cuts, blisters, and other injuries prone to infection. To prevent foot complications, avoid walking barefoot, wash your feet daily with lukewarm water (avoiding long soaks), and moisturize with lotion or petroleum jelly. Inspect your feet daily for calluses, blisters, sores, redness, or swelling. If you notice any cuts or sores that are not healing well, consult your physician promptly to prevent serious infections.
Diabetes can increase your susceptibility to certain illnesses, so staying current with vaccines is essential. Routine immunizations, such as the flu and pneumonia vaccines, can provide extra protection.
Reduce Your Stress Levels
Stress is a part of life, but finding ways to manage it is essential for maintaining good health, especially when managing diabetes. Reducing stress can make it easier to keep your blood sugar in check. Try to get plenty of sleep, prioritize tasks, and practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation. Physical exercise, reducing caffeine intake, or even enjoying a cup of spearmint tea can also help ease stress.
By incorporating these habits into your routine, you can significantly reduce your risk of diabetes-related complications and lead a healthier, more balanced life. Stay committed, stay informed, and take charge of your health.