Thursday, December 15, 2011

Diabetes - Living with Diabetes

my blood sugar testing kitImage by Newbirth35 via FlickrSEELOW, BRANDENBURG - AUGUST 08:  Country doct...Image by Getty Images via @daylifeWhether you have just been diagnosed with diabetes or have had it for years, you know that life is different (or going to be) for those with diabetes than for those without.  If you are new to it, know that isn’t the end of your life.  Living with diabetes is much easier these days then it use to be.  There are just a couple things you now have to deal with. 

First of all, you need to make sure you watch what you eat.  Things with a lot of sugar should be avoided (though they should be avoided by everyone) so that you don’t spike your blood sugar exponentially.  But you also need to make sure that you are getting enough in your diet to keep your blood sugar from dropping too low.  Too high and your be in risk of eye, kidney, heart disease and nerve damage.  Too low and your run into feeling lethargic, possibly shaking, and you even might lose consciousness, which is never a good thing.  Make sure to watch your blood sugar levels regularly, but don’t get crazy about it.  It’s too much stress to be taking your blood sugar every hour, not to mention how much your finger tips will probably not like you. 

Second, make sure you take your medication when you’re suppose to.  If you have type two diabetes, this means that you inject your insulin when you need it.  Your doctor will let you know how much and how many times you need to take insulin in a day.  If you have type one diabetes, this means taking your pills on time.

The third major difference is that you are at a higher risk of developing neuropathy, which is a nerve damage in your feet, resulting in a inability to feel your feet.  If you have this already, make sure you monitor your feet daily for wounds.  For more on how to take care of your feet, click here

East Penn Foot & Ankle Associates would love to talk to you if you have any questions on how diabetes can effect your feet.  Contact us if you have  any questions.

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