November is National Diabetes Month which includes a campaign to educate the public about the diagnosis and management of this disease. Diabetes affects one billion people worldwide including more than 38 million Americans. Of those in the US, two million have type 1, but by far, the most common, and often preventable, is type 2. Each year, more than one million new cases are diagnosed. Among those, type 2 diabetes in children continues escalating.
Symptoms of Diabetes
Several symptoms warn of the onset of diabetes. While some signs may indicate other conditions, medical attention is necessary to determine exact causes.
- Frequent urination
- Excessive thirst or hunger
- Extreme fatigue
- Blurred vision
- Slow healing of wounds
- Weight loss
- Numbness or tingling in hands or feet
Tips for Diabetes Management
Diabetes, the eighth leading cause of death, can damage the eyes, kidneys, heart, and nerves and has been linked to certain types of cancer. The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) identifies several tips to take charge of your health and prevent the disease.
Know your risks
The most vulnerable groups for diabetes are African Americans, American Indians, Asian Americans, Hispanic/Latinos, and Pacific Islanders. Other risks include obesity, over age 35, and family history.
Manage certain health markers using A B Cs
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A1C blood tests measure the average glucose level over a period of time. Those with levels at 6.5 percent or above are diagnosed with the disease. A1C between 5.7 to 6.4 are considered as prediabetic, while the normal range is below 5.7 percent. The goal for those with this condition is to strive toward a reading of 7 percent or less. Several factors may skew the A1C reading including severe anemia, kidney failure, liver disease, certain medications, and others. Blood Pressure that is too high can cause considerable damage to the heart, kidneys, brain, and eyes. Normal blood pressure will have an upper reading (systolic pressure) of 120 or less and the lower reading (diastolic pressure) of less than 80. Blood pressure from 120 to 129 with a diastolic pressure of 80 is considered elevated. Stage 1 of high blood pressure is between 130 to 139 with a diastolic reading of 80 to 89, while stage 2 will have systolic readings of 140 or higher or a diastolic pressure of 90 or higher. Blood pressure exceeding levels of 180 systolic or 120 diastolic need prompt medical attention. |
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Cholesterol is a fat produced by the liver. Improper diet, exercise, and other lifestyle factors can increase blood levels. Elevated levels can cause vessels to become clogged, preventing normal blood flow and resulting in a heart attack or stroke. Total cholesterol values for healthy people are 200 mg/dL or below. The goal for low-density lipoprotein (LDL) is less than 100 mg/dL or less than 70 mg/dL if coronary artery disease is present.
Smoking, in addition to the ABC guidelines, is another health marker. Detrimental effects of tobacco are numerous and well-known. The use of any of these products can be easily summarized. DON’T START.
Take small steps toward healthy habits
Most of us dislike change. However, a diagnosis of diabetes indicates the need for several life changes. Making small adjustments helps to maintain consistency toward reaching the desired goal for improved health. Consider the following aspect when choosing what will work best for you.
Create a healthy meal plan using the Dietary Guidelines for Americans. Chapter one discusses ways for healthier eating. In conjunction with your health care provider, preferably a registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN), decide where your eating plan can or should be adjusted.
Get physical activity to help lower blood glucose, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels. Minimum standards of activities suggest at least 150 minutes per week of moderate to intense exercise, depending on other health conditions. Walking is great exercise unless it is hampered by other diseases. Work with your health provider to determine what is best for you and start slowly.
Reach and maintain a healthy weight. While there may be numerous options, it is best to work with an RDN to determine the best plan for you. It may be as simple as changing a few food items included in your regular routine or disciplining yourself to consume smaller portions of food. More complex solutions may include bariatric surgery or the use of certain medications which require close observation and guidance.
Get enough sleep. For most of us, that may be seven to eight hours each night, but age and other factors can necessitate more. Ample sleep may improve your mood, energy level, and blood glucose levels.
Take care of your mental health with the help of your health provider. Most of us endure stress at some time. With extended stress or anxiety, many need help. While stress is our physical or mental response to external causes, anxiety is the body’s reaction to stress in the form of elevated blood pressure, gastric problems, or a multitude of other physical complications.
Diabetes is a prevalent condition worldwide. Not only is this National Diabetes Month, but November 14, 2024, is World Diabetes Day. A diagnosis of diabetes isn’t necessarily life-threatening. However, without proper attention and adherence to good health practices, it can be. Take care of your health. It’s priceless!
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