Those who have type 1 or type 2 diabetes should make diabetes disease management a top priority to ensure the condition does not advance to potentially dangerous stages. Since the body’s normal ability to fight infections is compromised with diabetes, there are many risks factors that come along with the disease. Damage to the retina can occur in diabetics, which is the leading cause of blindness. Deteriorationof the nerves can put limbs in danger of developing wounds that are slow to heal, which can lead to amputation in the most severe cases. Disease management diabetes can help reduce a person’s risk for these unfortunate events.
Diabetes can also lead to blockages in the arteries that can invoke a heart attack, stroke and decreased blood circulation in the body. Diabetics are more susceptible to high blood pressure, high cholesterol and elevated triglycerides. They are at higher risk of heart and kidney disease as well as blood vessel complications. In the most extreme circumstances, complications that result from diabetes can put patients in an early grave. That’s why diabetes disease management is something that should not be taken lightly.
Managing diabetes can be accomplished through simple routine lifestyle changes. It is important for a diabetic patient to remain consistent when it comes to their diabetes disease management. Although there are many complications associated with the disease, it is possible for people affected with diabetes to live a normal life when they maintain an appropriate diabetes disease management regimen.
Finding the Right Diabetes Disease Management Program
Because the affects of diabetes vary in each individual, a medical physician should be consulted to help determine the right type of diabetes disease management program. Nothing can take the place of a doctor when it comes to creating diabetes disease management programs. Diabetes nurse educators and dieticians also play an important role. At the end of the day, however, the diabetic themselves is the one with the most control over managing the condition.
Mayo Clinic online offers tips about how to keep diabetes in check. Not smoking is high on the list. Keeping an eye on blood pressure and cholesterol is also essential. Making annual appointments for eye exams and physicals and keeping vaccines up to date are also important as part of diabetes disease management.
Maintaining a diabetes-friendly diet is a key factor to staying healthy. WebMD stresses the importance of staying away regular alcohol consumption. Diabetics should also keep in mind that foods with a low glycemic index help keep body fat levels in check. Intake of sugar, certain types of carbohydrates and starches should remain limited for diabetes disease management. Regular exercise also plays a key role in disease management programs for diabetes.