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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