Diabetes is a disease that involves your body either not producing enough insulin or being unable to use insulin properly, resulting in an abnormal build-up of glucose in the bloodstream. According to National Diabetes Statistics Report, 11.3% of people in the United States have diabetes. Insulin is a chemical responsible for digestion and energy production. It ensures that excess glucose is stored in the liver and that the body can meet its energy demands.
Diabetes is associated with serious health complications that can make life difficult for patients. Fortunately, following a healthy lifestyle routine can help manage diabetes and improve the standard of life. Here are three must-know tips for living with diabetes.
1. Regular Inspection of Your Feet
Almost half of the people with diabetes experience some type of nerve damage. The main cause of nerve damage among diabetes patients is neuropathy. Research shows that diabetic neuropathy results from hyperglycemia which damages nerves and interferes with the body’s ability to send signals. The blood vessels supplying nerves with nutrients and oxygen are also weakened or damaged by high blood sugar levels. The nerves in the feet and legs are always the most affected, and it can cause the leg to lose its feeling.
Diabetes increases the chances of an individual suffering from a variety of foot health problems such as injuries, bone abnormalities, and infections. The poor circulation and damaged nerves in the foot caused by diabetic neuropathy lead to numbness and tingling and reduce the chances of noticing any pain or ulcers. Regularly inspecting your feet can help you notice wounds and injuries and seek proper medical care.
Choose the Right Shoe for Cushion
It would help if you chose a good shoe that allows blood circulation and alleviates pain. Don’t wear shoes with flip-flops, flat soles, or high heels because they don’t allow even distribution of foot pressure. Look for wide and deep-toe box shoes to prevent friction and rubbing while walking. Choose one with a soft insole for maximum comfort. Don’t forget about the material; go for canvas, leather, or suede because they will provide you with adequate air circulation. The right shoes will offset many orthopedic-related problems such as numbness in your feet and provide stability and balance.
2. Physical Therapy for Balance
Neuropathy reduces your chances of having proper balancing ability. Since the nerves and blood vessels in your feet, legs, and ear are damaged, it may affect your balance and increase your chances of falling. It is difficult for your senses to determine where your body is relative to the ground and other objects when the nerves at your feet and other parts are damaged. Physical therapy can help you to avoid balance issues.
Diabetes also makes the body produce enzymes and hormones that reduce the effectiveness of your immunity. It also reduces vitamin D levels responsible for calcium absorption, which is necessary for bone density. High blood glucose levels cause chronic inflammation, which has a direct impact on bone quality and strength. Therefore, diabetic people take longer to heal and require proper medical attention, even for smaller injuries. Falls are also extremely dangerous for people with diabetes because they can result in fractures and injuries because of bone weakness.
3. Diet Modification
When you have diabetes, nutrition and physical activity are very significant. A healthy meal plan can help maintain your blood glucose level in the right target range. Talk with your doctor about your diet. Balancing what you eat and drink can greatly impact your health. You must know when, what to eat, and how much to eat. Doing so can keep your blood sugar levels at the recommended range.
Your blood sugar levels can also affect your mood, energy, and endurance. Diabetes can make you feel highs and lows regularly. Poor blood sugar management can lead to negative moods, body weaknesses, and lower quality of life. You need to equip yourself with the right test kits to regularly check your sugar levels and take the right actions to keep it at the right range. The following testing kits brands can help you to maintain your blood glucose levels;
- Labcorp Diabetes Risk Test
- LetsGetChecked Diabetes Test
- Overlywell HbA1c Test Kit
- DTI Laboratories A1c Test Kit
- MyLAB Box Diabetes Hemoglobin A1c Screening Test
To avoid health complications, keep your blood levels close to normal. The normal range before you eat should be 80 to 130 milligrams per deciliter (ml/dl) and 180 ml/dl or lower after eating.
Diabetes is a serious condition. Educate yourself about the various medications, treatments, and lifestyle changes that can help manage diabetes. Consult your doctor if you have uncontrolled diabetes or suspect you may have diabetes.
For more information or help with diabetes-related problems, call 570-208-2787 or email cawleyptfrank@gmail.com. We offer personalized and comprehensive physical therapy services.
