Disease Care

Diabetes
Treatments
Dealing with Symptoms
Managing the Disease

Diabetes : Dealing with Symptoms

Too much glucose in the blood can cause diabetes problems. The American Diabetes Association recommends the "ABC" plan for monitoring diabetes:

"A" stands for A1C (a test that measures blood glucose control). Diabetics should have this test at least twice a year. A doctor might also recommend that the person check their blood glucose levels at home.

"B" is for blood pressure. Have it checked at every office visit.

"C" is for cholesterol. Have it checked at least once a year. High blood glucose can damage many parts of the body, including the nerves, blood vessels, heart, kidneys, eyes and feet.

Neuropathy and nerve damage

One of the most common complications of diabetes is neuropathy, which is damage to the nerves that run throughout the body, connecting the spinal cord to muscles, skin, blood vessels and organs. Nerve damage can develop throughout the body. Symptoms include pain, tingling, or numbness in the hands, arms, feet and legs. The first treatment step is to bring blood glucose levels within the normal range. Doctors can treat painful diabetic neuropathy with oral medications.

Heart disease and stroke

Diabetics are twice as likely as non-diabetics to have heart disease or a stroke. Therefore, an important part of diabetes care is keeping blood pressure and cholesterol under control. Lifestyle changes, such as diet and exercise, are the best way to maintain a healthy heart.

Kidney disease

Diabetes can damage the kidneys, causing them to fail and lose their ability to filter out waste products. Again, a healthy diet and exercise are crucial. See a doctor right away for bladder or kidney infections. Symptoms include pain or burning during urination, a frequent urge to go to the bathroom, urine that looks cloudy or reddish, fever, or pain in the back or on the side below the ribs.

Eye complications

Diabetes can cause eye problems and may lead to blindness. See an eye care professional for an eye exam once a year, even if the person's vision is okay.

Foot complications

Foot problems most often happen when there is nerve damage in the feet or when blood flow is poor. Experts recommend that people with diabetes have a comprehensive foot exam each year. A comprehensive foot exam assesses the skin, muscles, bones, circulation and sensation of the feet. For daily care: wash feet in warm water every day, look for cuts, sores, blisters, or calluses, and file them gently with an emery board, and always wear socks, slippers or shoes to protect the feet.

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