10 Ways to Avoid Diabetes Complications
It’s estimated that over 3.8 million people in the UK have been diagnosed with diabetes. The disease is one that must be taken seriously. Whether it’s by following your treatment plan with care, keeping in contact with your doctor, or knowing what foods to avoid, there are lots of things you can do to decrease your risk of developing serious and life-threatening health complications.
To help you lead a fulfilled and healthy life, here are 10 ways in which you can avoid diabetes complications.
Avoid Stress
High-stress levels can make it far more difficult to manage your diabetes. If you are under immense pressure, this can hinder your daily routine and cause harm to your body. Hormones from stress can increase your heart rate and blood pressure, and cause your blood sugars to rise. If you suffer from poor glucose control, there are lots of ways you can keep your stress levels at bay. Yoga, deep breathing exercises, and meditation are great options to combat stress and help you control your diabetes better.
Many people living with diabetes worry about the future and how their condition may worsen, adding more stress to their plate. However, taking out diabetes life insurance via a site like im-insured.co.uk can add protection and security for your loved ones. I’m Insured can help you find life insurance with diabetes quotes from the UK’s leading insurers to ensure you get the best protection.
Drink in Moderation
If you consume alcohol, your blood sugar can suffer as a result. If you are known to binge drink, this can result in negative consequences for your diabetes and general health. So, it’s advised to drink in moderation and only consume alcohol with a snack or meal. You must be conscious of the fact that alcohol can cause low blood sugar later down the line, particularly for individuals who use insulin. When consuming alcohol, it’s best to avoid drinks that are high in sugar, such as mixed drinks and sweet wines. There is help out there if you are finding it difficult to cut back or give up alcohol.
Be Committed
If you are living with diabetes, there are many healthcare professionals that can help you on your journey in gaining control of your condition. Whether it’s your GP, dietitian, or diabetes nurse educator, all three will teach you the basics of diabetes care and provide long-term support as and when you need it. Once you start to understand more about diabetes, you will know what strategies to take to maintain control of your condition. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to speak to your doctor. Many people with diabetes have all kinds of worries and concerns, but asking for help and support is crucial.
Don’t Smoke
Those who smoke are at an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes, among various other diabetes complications. These include heart disease, reduced blood flow to the feet and legs, and kidney disease. We’re all aware of the health dangers that are associated with smoking. So, if you use tobacco and want to stop, there is plenty of help and support out there. Smokers are more likely to have difficulty with insulin dosing and managing the disease. Some diabetics experience temporary difficulty managing their symptoms once they quit smoking, so don’t be afraid to ask for help.
Manage Your Cholesterol and Blood Pressure
For most of us, following a healthy, balanced diet is enough to keep our cholesterol levels in check. However, for those living with diabetes, you must have your levels examined every year. If you have high cholesterol levels, this can increase your chances of having a stroke. High blood pressure is a condition that is seen in individuals with type 2 diabetes. If you have high blood pressure, this will increase your chances of getting heart disease, developing heart failure, as well as vascular dementia. Many strategies can help you manage and lower your cholesterol and blood pressure, such as by losing weight, factoring in physical activity, and changing your diet.
Schedule Regular Examinations
When it comes to keeping your diabetes under control, it’s advised that you schedule regular physical and eye check-ups throughout the year. During your physical, you will be asked about your activity level and nutrition by your doctor, who will also look for diabetes-related complications. If you have diabetes, you must also get regular eye examinations. Should you develop diabetic retinopathy, starting treatment early can reduce damage and stop blindness. Your eye care specialist will look for signs of cataracts and retinal damage too. Make sure you get into the habit of having physicals and eye exams, as putting them off will only cause problems later down the line.
Stay Up to Date with Vaccines
There are various illnesses and diseases that diabetics are at an increased risk of contracting, which is why you must stay up to date with vaccines. Whether it’s the flu vaccine, hepatitis B vaccine, or pneumonia vaccine, having all three can help keep you healthy and active, as well as prevent severe complications. If you are scared of needles and avoid getting vaccinated, your health will suffer as a result. So, reframing your thinking, speaking to your doctor or nurse, and considering therapy are good strategies to follow to help you feel more relaxed.
Follow a Good Oral Hygiene Routine
Some diabetics are at a heightened risk of acquiring gum infections. From an early age, we are taught the importance of brushing our teeth regularly and flossing. So, you must get into the habit of following a good oral hygiene routine. Seeing your dentist twice a year and contacting them if your gums start to bleed or look swollen is critical for keeping healthy teeth and gums, according to this reputable Dentist in Thousand Oaks. High blood sugar can also make gum disease worse. If you have a dental phobia, it may be wise to bring a loved one to your appointment.
Pay Close Attention to Your Feet
High blood sugar can restrict blood flow and cause nerve damage in your feet. Should you leave it untreated, blisters and cuts can result in serious infections. If you notice any tingling, pain, or loss of sensation, you must see your doctor immediately. To stop foot problems from occurring in the first place, there are many things you can do, such as washing your feet in lukewarm water, drying your feet gently, and keeping your feet and ankles moisturised. Any sores or foot problems can turn serious within a blink of an eye. So, if they don’t start healing within a couple of days, you must speak to your doctor.
Consider Taking a Daily Aspirin
If you are diabetic and have cardiovascular risk factors like high blood pressure or smoking, your GP may advise taking a low dosage of aspirin each day to reduce your risk of having a stroke or heart attack. Doctors recommend that you should take aspirin, even if you don’t have heart disease. Aspirin therapy should be considered for those with both type 1 and type 2 diabetes.
If you are living with diabetes, monitoring your condition and keeping good care of yourself is well within your control. If you are willing to take a pro-active approach and follow the tips listed above, diabetes will not stand in your way of living a healthy and active life. If you aren’t sure where to begin, it’s advised to make an appointment with your doctor, who will give you recommendations on what steps to take next.
