|
Diabetes
Type 1 Diabetes, occurs when there is a severe lack of insulin in the body because the cells in the pancreas that produce it have been destroyed. It is sometimes called juvenile diabetes or early onset diabetes because it usually appears in people under the age of 40, often in childhood. Type 1 diabetes is treated by insulin injections, diet and physical activity.
Type 2 Diabetes develops when the body still produces insulin but not enough for its needs, or when the insulin that is produced does not work properly. This is known as insulin resistance. It is the most common form and accounts for around 90% of all diabetics. This type of diabetes usually appears in people over the age of 40, but can occur in children during their childhood. The treatment is usually by diet, tablets or insulin. Lifestyle changes for type 2 diabetes such as dietary changes, physical activity and weight loss (if necessary) can help but in time some people may also need to have medication.
Diabetes can increase the risk of developing other conditions, such as heart disease. It can however be managed effectively and many people with diabetes lead a healthy, active life. A diagnosis of diabetes can be overwhelming. But it shouldn’t stop you from having a normal life, especially if you are able to manage your diabetes and reduce the chance of developing complications. It is extremely important to try and stay as healthy as possible by eating well, exercising and keeping your weight under control.
Self care is a very important part of daily life. It is all about taking responsibility for your own health and well being with support from the people involved in your care. Self care is all about taking care to stay fit, maintain good physical and mental health and have a better quality of life. This will help you be more active and independent have less pain and live longer. You do not have to deprive yourself with food, just watch and be sensible with what you eat, be careful with portion sizes and have your daily allowance of fruit and vegetables. It is also very important that you never miss a meal or drink alcohol on an empty stomach .
This is only a brief outline of diabetes. If you think you have diabetes contact your doctor as soon as possible. The earlier it is diagnosed the better. Some people go for years not realising they have the disease until they become ill. A simple blood test, usually done at the surgery will let your doctor know if you have diabetes. Most surgeries have a specialist diabetic doctor and nursing sister to give you help and advise. Not every diabetic needs medication but may need to control their cholesterol and blood pressure levels. This may be in the form of medication as cholesterol and blood pressure controls are very important when diabetes is diagnosed.
There are also many good websites on the Internet with information on diabetes. Below are websites where you can get valuable information on diabetes and medications. For more information on diabetes contact Diabetes UK Careline: 0845 120 2960 Open Monday to Friday 9am - 5pm
Diabetes UK Website
Ask About Medicines Website
NHS Direct Online Website
For information on individual treatments for diabetes visit the Medicine Guide Website
Type 2 Diabetes Health Assessment
Diabetic Diet & Meals
Diabetes Diet
|
|
|
|
|
||
|
|
|
|
|
|