So, just what is diabetes and why are many people so worried about this disease affecting them? For starters, diabetes is a condition where the body doesn’t produce enough insulin. Insulin is produced by the pancreas which helps the body cells absorb blood sugar or glucose to convert it into energy. What the insulin does is that it keeps the blood sugar level in the body normal and at a healthy level.
If you have diabetes, it basically means that your body is not able to produce enough insulin or that your body isn't able to properly use the insulin that your pancreas produces. When this happens, your body's blood sugar level or blood glucose level rises to dangerous levels, which if left untreated, can have serious complications to your overall well-being.
There is still no cure found for diabetes. But, it can be managed. You have to remember that diabetes can increase the risk of heart diseases, stroke, blindness and even kidney damage. Any wounds you get take longer to heal and are more likely to get infected. People with diabetes can develop skin disorders and foot problems that may end up in amputation.
You can prevent or at least minimize these things from happening to you through proper management with the correct diet, medication, and exercise.
Living with diabetes is not easy. You need to change your lifestyle. You have to be aware of the food you eat, when you eat, and you also have to exercise and strictly follow your medications. Managing diabetes also means that you need to constantly and regularly monitor your blood sugar level. This means that you have to get your own glucose meter device, which will be able to help you monitor your blood sugar level.
You need to keep in mind that diabetes is a disease where you don’t necessarily feel anything. But, there may already be bad things going on inside your body if you don’t get it treated. The best way to treat diabetes is by regulating or by keeping your blood sugar level at an acceptable level.
Hyperglycemia isn't the only problem that you will experience if you have diabetes. You will also experience hypoglycemia or low blood sugar level. These two can be potentially life threatening, which is why you need to follow a strict diet and exercise plan. You also need to follow doctor's orders and keep up with your medications.
By keeping your blood sugar level at an acceptable level, you will be able to minimize the risk of diabetes-related complications, such as kidney disease, heart disease, stroke, blindness and foot and skin disorders.
To make it easier for you to manage the disease, you have to learn how to accept the disease. Most people are left in denial that they have the disease and often neglect proper treatment until it is too late.
If you accept that you are going to put up with this disease for the rest of your life, the easier it will be for you. Always keep in mind that proper management is the key to living a normal life with diabetes.
Through these tips, you can be sure that you will be able to conquer diabetes and let you live a full and a life that is as normal as possible.