Type 2 diabetes can be a creeping up on you, silent killer. Having type 2 diabetes requires special management if you wish to stay away from all the risks. Below, we provide part one of two of a summary of the risks to having type 2 diabetes. This blog has been split due to its length, and part two will follow tomorrow.
INTRODUCTION
I live every day with type 2 diabetes and know how important it is to effectively manage, which requires a holistic approach encompassing lifestyle changes, medication adherence, and regular monitoring of blood sugar levels.
Type 2 diabetes, if left unchecked, can lead to severe complications affecting various organs and systems in the body, and the reason for this blog. Understanding what behaviours and habits can exacerbate the condition is crucial for maintaining good health and preventing long-term damage. In this guide, we will outline some of the most dangerous actions to avoid when living with type 2 diabetes, offering insights into how to manage this condition effectively to have a better quality of life living with diabetes.
IN THE BEGINNING
When I first learned I had type 2 diabetes, I did what most people do: take a pill. That did not work very well for me, and I decided to give managing my diabetes with diet a try. Now, that was a frustrating exercise. No playbook, dietician, or anyone can help you do what is needed. You must decide for yourself to change your lifestyle, lose weight, exercise, get plenty of sleep and watch what you eat.
It was a tough transition for me, but I am glad I did it. Through lots of testing, I found out what impacts my sugar level and how much. I refused to put one of those 3-divider baby plates in front of me and now spoon out in small quantities the things I like with an eyeball measure of how much I can eat.
I know I can eat a couple of spoonfuls of rice and potatoes and even a small portion of chocolate cake or some other tasty dessert. However, my plate now usually contains meat, vegetables, and a large salad bowl.
I knew the risks, and all the doctor had to say to me was, "Do you want a long life?" Of course, I did, and each person is responsible for deciding what they want to do.
We all have choices, and with type 2 diabetes, we can either head down the dangerous road or work to live a better quality of life living with diabetes. Each of us has a choice and needs to consider the risks.
THE RISKS
Blood Sugar Levels
One of the most critical behaviours to avoid when you have type 2 diabetes is neglecting to monitor your blood sugar levels regularly. Blood sugar management is central to diabetes care. Failing to check your levels can result in hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) or hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), both of which can be dangerous.
Hyperglycemia can lead to acute complications such as diabetic ketoacidosis, while chronic high blood sugar levels can cause long-term damage to organs like the eyes, kidneys, and heart. On the other hand, hypoglycemia can cause immediate issues such as dizziness, confusion, and even loss of consciousness. Regular monitoring helps you know if your blood sugar levels are within a target range, reducing the risk of these complications.
Avoiding Regular Medical Checkups
Regular medical checkups are integral to managing type 2 diabetes. Skipping these appointments can significantly increase the risk of complications. Diabetes is a progressive disease that can affect various organs, and regular monitoring by a healthcare provider helps keep the condition under control.
During checkups, your doctor monitors your HbA1c levels, which reflect your average blood sugar levels over the past two to three months. They also check for any signs of complications, such as neuropathy (nerve damage), retinopathy (eye damage), and kidney damage. These complications can often progress silently without noticeable symptoms, making regular medical oversight essential for early detection and intervention.
Additionally, regular visits allow for timely adjustments to your treatment plan. If your current plan is not adequately controlling your blood sugar, your doctor can make necessary changes to help you achieve your goals.
By avoiding regular checkups, you miss the opportunity for early detection and timely treatment of complications, increasing the risk of severe health outcomes.
Eating Unhealthy Foods
Diet plays a pivotal role in managing type 2 diabetes. Consuming unhealthy foods, mainly those high in sugars and refined carbohydrates, can be particularly detrimental to your health. Such foods can cause rapid spikes in blood sugar levels, making it challenging to maintain stable glucose control. Consistent high blood sugar levels, or hyperglycemia, can lead to severe complications, including heart disease, kidney damage, and nerve damage and believe me, you do not want to go there.
In addition, frequent consumption of these foods can contribute to weight gain and increase insulin resistance, further complicating diabetes management. Obesity is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular disease, which is already a heightened risk for individuals with type 2 diabetes.
Ignoring Signs of Complications
One of the gravest mistakes you can make when managing type 2 diabetes is ignoring early signs of complications. Symptoms such as persistent fatigue, frequent infections, vision changes, numbness or tingling in extremities, and slow-healing sores can all indicate that your diabetes may not be well-controlled.
Neglecting these signs can lead to severe health consequences. For instance, persistent high blood sugar levels can cause diabetic neuropathy, which results in nerve damage, typically in the hands and feet. This can progress to more severe issues, including loss of sensation and an increased risk of injuries and infections, which may lead to amputations in extreme cases.
Vision changes might signal diabetic retinopathy, which, if not treated, eventually leads to blindness. Likewise, frequent infections and slow-healing sores indicate that the immune system is compromised and that the body's ability to heal is impaired.
Early intervention is crucial for mitigating these risks. Regularly monitoring symptoms and attending routine medical checkups help catch these complications early, allowing for timely treatment and better management of your condition. Ignoring these signs jeopardizes immediate health and increases the risk of long-term, irreversible damage.
CONCLUSION
In conclusion, living with type 2 diabetes is a daily journey that requires a comprehensive and holistic approach to management. This is Part one of two providing information to help you 9n your journey with Type 2 diabetes, which will be published tomorrow and can be accessed at our Damndiabetes website.
DISCLAIMER
In conclusion, living with type 2 diabetes is a daily journey that requires a comprehensive and holistic approach to management. By embracing lifestyle changes such as adopting a balanced diet, staying physically active, and cultivating positive habits, individuals can significantly improve their quality of life and overall health. Medication adherence plays a crucial role, ensuring that treatment plans are followed consistently to maintain stable blood sugar levels and prevent complications. Additionally, regular monitoring of blood sugar is essential for understanding how various factors affect one’s condition, enabling timely adjustments to diet and lifestyle.
Ultimately, effective management of type 2 diabetes is not just about controlling blood sugar; it is about empowering oneself to live fully and healthily. By integrating these elements into daily routines, those living with diabetes can take charge of their health, enhance their well-being, and thrive in their everyday lives. With dedication and support, managing type 2 diabetes can lead to a fulfilling and active life.
Vancouver, Canada
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