Keeping a check on your diabetes is important for maintaining good health. The good news is that there are lots of things you can do to take care of yourself and make sure you’re getting the best treatment possible. Here are some tips for making sure your diabetes stays in check:
Self-Monitoring Blood Sugar
Self-monitoring blood sugar is the most basic and important tool you can use to manage your diabetes. A glucose meter measures the amount of sugar in your blood, and you should check it at least four times daily. Be sure to keep a log or chart of these results so that you can see trends over time, especially when changing medications or diet.
You can use an app for diabetes available for smartphones that allows you to track this information automatically and even send reminders to yourself when it’s time to test again.Tandem Diabetes’ t:connect web application is the perfect option for you. According to Tandem Diabetes’ professionals, “The t:connect mobile app frees you to bolus from your smartphone† and stay informed of your diabetes management without touching your t:slim X2 pump.”
Get Regular Eye Exams
Diabetes can damage the small blood vessels in your eyes, causing blurry vision and glaucoma. You need to have an annual exam to make sure that your eyes are healthy, and if you have diabetes, it’s important to see an ophthalmologist every year.
Get Regular Dental Cleanings and Care
One of the best ways to take good care of your teeth is to make sure you get regular dental checkups. Your dentist can tell you if there are any problems with your teeth or gums and will be able to treat them before they become major issues. Regular dental visits also help you avoid serious health problems caused by diabetes.
Regular checkups can also prevent other health complications that arise from diabetes and poor dental hygiene, such as high blood pressure, heart disease and stroke. You should see a dentist twice a year (once every six months) unless they recommend more frequent visits or have concerns about something specific regarding your oral health.
Take Medication
It is very important to take medications as prescribed by your doctor. Your diabetes educator or nurse will instruct you on how to take your medication and tell you which types of food and drinks to avoid while taking them. Some medications need to be taken with food, while others should be taken on an empty stomach. It’s also crucial that you keep track of how much water you drink throughout the day so that it doesn’t affect the absorption rate of your medication.
Practice Safe Foot Care
Wearing shoes that fit is an essential part of foot health. This can be a problem if you have diabetes, as the disease can cause nerve damage. If you have neuropathy in your feet, it may feel like there’s a constant tingling or numbness. The best way to prevent this from happening is by wearing shoes that are comfortable and supportive enough for your feet.
These simple tips can help you maintain a healthy lifestyle and manage your diabetes. Remember, the key is to stay in control and make sure that you are able to keep track of your blood sugar levels at all times.
