Diabetes
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW
To get energy from the starches
and sugar we eat, everyone needs adequate supplies of a
hormone called insulin. People with diabetes either do not
make enough insulin or are unable to make efficient use of
whatever insulin they do manage to produce. Without insulin,
sugar builds up in the blood, eventually leading to a host of
serious problems. Diabetes (referred to medically as diabetes
mellitus) can start in childhood, but more often appears
later in life. There is no cure for this disease, but it can
be controlled. Left uncontrolled, it can result in damage to
the heart, kidneys, eyes, blood vessels, and
nerves.
Causes
In people with ""Type I''
diabetes--the kind that usually appears in childhood--the
pancreas makes too little insulin or none at all. In those
with ""Type II'' diabetes--which typically develops in
adults--the pancreas continues to manufacture insulin, but
the body fails to make use of it.
Signs/Symptoms
The tip-off that you have
diabetes is a set of symptoms that includes fatigue, great
thirst, weight loss, frequent urination, and increased
vulnerability to infection. Wounds may heal slowly. You may
also feel as though you are eating more than
usual.
Care
People with Type I diabetes
usually need regular injections of insulin. Type II diabetes
can often be controlled with a special diet, exercise, and
oral medicines, though temporary insulin injections may be
necessary during periods of stress and times of illness.
Since there is no cure, you will need treatment for the rest
of your life.
WHAT YOU SHOULD DO
-
The more closely you follow
your doctors instructions, the better your chances of
preventing or delaying dangerous complications.
-
It is very important to
take the medication prescribed by your doctor exactly as
directed. Never stop taking this medicine without talking
to your doctor first.
-
Be sure to test your urine
or blood for sugar (glucose) as often as your doctor
directs.
-
Make a point of exercising
regularly. Your doctor will suggest an exercise program
you can follow.
-
Eat wholesome, balanced
meals at regular, fixed times. It is best to have 3 meals
a day, plus 2 or 3 snacks. Your doctor or nutritionist
will give you a special diet to guide your starch and
sugar intake.
-
Your doctor may advise you
to lose weight. Losing as little as 10 to 15 pounds can
improve your blood sugar levels.
-
Always wear a medic-alert
pendant or bracelet identifying you as a diabetic.
-
Learn about your disease
and about the signs of hypoglycemia and ketoacidosis (see
below).
Call Your Doctor
If...
-
You have any questions
about medicine, activity, or diet.
-
You continue to have
symptoms of diabetes (such as increased thirst and
urination).
Seek Care Immediately
If...
-
You develop symptoms of low
blood sugar (hypoglycemia). These symptoms include
confusion, sweating, weakness, paleness, and a rapid
heartbeat. In severe cases, hypoglycemia can progress to
seizures and coma.
-
You develop symptoms of
ketoacidosis (a dangerous chemical imbalance in the
body). These symptoms include a fruity odor on the
breath, a speed-up or slow-down in breathing, and a very
sleepy feeling.
-
You develop vomiting or
have diarrhea.
-
You notice numbness,
tingling, or pain in your feet or hands.
-
You feel chest pain.
-
Your symptoms get worse,
even though you are following your doctor's
orders.
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