Blog about diabetes

Most people with diabetes have health problems — or risk factors –
such as high blood pressure and cholesterol that increase one’s risk
for heart disease and stroke. When combined with diabetes, these
risk factors add up to big trouble. In fact, more than 65% of people
with diabetes die from heart disease or stroke. With diabetes, heart
attacks occur earlier in life and often result in death. By managing
diabetes, high blood pressure and cholesterol, people with diabetes
can reduce their risk
People with diabetes are vulnerable to a variety of complications
over time. Health-care providers all agree that strict control of
blood sugar makes complications less likely. This was shown clearly
by the Diabetes Control and Complications Trial. Control of blood
sugar is the best way to minimize the risk of complications.
Even the very best control may not be able to eliminate all
complications, and the risk of increases with the length of time you

have diabetes. Diabetes complications affect the eyes, kidneys,
nerves, and large and small blood vessels. Here is a list.
Prevention is possible
You can prevent diabetes-related complications, which are often
caused by prolonged high blood-sugar levels.
The first step in prevention is to find out what the complications
are and what causes them.
Whether you are living with diabetes (type 1 or type 2) or have been
recently diagnosed with diabetes (type 1 or type 2), you can control
your diabetes and lead a healthy, active life.
Here are some things you can do to stay healthy and lower your risk
of diabetes complications (for type 1 or type 2):
If you have diabetes, you face a higher risk of heart attack, stroke
and other complications. Be smart about your heart by following the
ABCs of diabetes care:
A: Get your blood tested for A1c (glycohemoglobin) as recommended by
your physician. This test will help your doctor to determine if your
diabetes is being controlled effectively or if you need to adjust
your treatment plan.
B: Measure your blood pressure at home, and take steps to control it.
C: Control your cholesterol level and other lipids (fat) in your
blood. Have your blood lipid levels checked as recommended by your
doctor.
Work with your doctor. If you have diabetes, an important step in
managing it is making sure you have your own doctor who can help you
develop a diabetes action plan. If you don’t have your own
physician, you can select one from our medical staff directory.
Diabetes can be prevented, delayed, or better managed by maintaining
a healthy weight. Use our body mass index calculator to see how you
are doing.