She Strengthens

Taking Control of Your Diabetes: A Guide to Managing Complications

Living with diabetes requires a significant adjustment to your daily routine, but it’s worth the effort to prevent long-term complications. When your body can’t process glucose efficiently, it can lead to a range of health issues. Whether you have type 1 or type 2 diabetes, understanding the risks and taking proactive steps can make all the difference.

The Risks of Uncontrolled Blood Sugar

Uncontrolled blood sugar can lead to serious health problems, including:

• Heart disease
• Stroke
• High blood pressure
• Memory loss
• Depression
• Tooth decay
• Vision loss
• Hearing loss

Reducing Your Risk of Heart Disease

Heart disease is a significant concern for people with diabetes. To reduce your risk, take the following steps:

• Quit smoking
• Stay active
• Get your blood pressure checked every 6 months
• Get your HbA1c checked once a year
• Get your cholesterol checked once a year

Recognizing the Signs of a Stroke

People with diabetes are 1.5 times more likely to have a stroke. Know the warning signs:

• Numbness on one side of your body
• Sudden confusion
• Trouble talking
• Dizziness or lack of coordination
• Cloudy or blacked-out vision
• Double vision
• Sudden severe headache

Managing Blood Pressure

High blood pressure is common in people with type 2 diabetes. To prevent HBP:

• Stay active
• Get enough potassium and magnesium
• Lower your salt intake

Lowering Your Risk of Alzheimer’s Disease

Research suggests a connection between diabetes and dementia. To reduce your risk:

• Keep your blood sugar in the safe zone
• Eat healthfully
• Stay active

Taking Care of Your Teeth and Gums

High blood sugar can damage your teeth and gums. Watch for:

• Red, angry-looking gums
• Gums that seem loose around your teeth
• Tooth decay

To prevent these issues, visit your dentist twice a year and brush your teeth twice a day.

Managing Mental Health

Diabetes can take a toll on your mental health. Know the signs of depression:

• Changing sleep patterns
• Feeling nervous or anxious
• Morning sadness
• Struggling to concentrate or get things done
• Withdrawing from friends and family

Don’t hesitate to seek help from a mental health professional.

Protecting Your Vision

Diabetic retinopathy is a common complication. Look out for:

• New “floaters” in your vision
• Blurriness
• Loss of color vision
• A blind spot in the center of your vision
• Halo-like glows around lights

Get a yearly eye exam to detect any issues early.

Keeping Your Feet Healthy

Diabetes can lead to foot ulcers and infections. To prevent these issues:

• Keep your feet clean and dry
• Wear comfortable shoes
• Check your feet for sores and blisters regularly

Managing Nerve Damage

Diabetic neuropathy can cause numbness, tingling, and pain. Know the symptoms:

• Numbness or tingling in your hands and feet
• Weakness
• Sensitivity to touch
• Stabbing pain
• Erectile dysfunction or vaginal dryness
• Loss of bladder or bowel control

Reducing Your Risk of Osteoporosis

People with diabetes are more likely to develop osteoporosis. To reduce your risk:

• Get enough calcium and vitamin D
• Exercise regularly
• Talk to your doctor about getting a bone density test

Managing Digestive Issues

Gastroparesis can cause heartburn, fullness, and bloating. Eating small, fiber-packed meals throughout the day can help.

Preventing Kidney Disease

Kidney problems can lead to frequent urination and kidney disease. Watch for:

• Frequent urination
• Foamy urine
• Swelling in your feet and ankles

Get a simple urine test to determine your needs.

Protecting Your Hearing

Diabetes can increase your risk of hearing loss. If you’re having trouble hearing, don’t hesitate to seek help.

Prevention is Key

By making a few lifestyle changes, you can prevent long-term complications and take control of your diabetes. Eat healthfully, exercise regularly, and monitor your blood sugar levels to live a long and healthy life.