Many of you know of someone who has diabetes or you may have diabetes yourself.
However, do you really understand what diabetes is?
Diabetes, or what some people call “having too much sugar,” is a complicated chronic disease. If diabetes is left untreated, it can impact many different systems in the body.
Type 1 and Type 2 Explained
There are two types of diabetes, Type 1 and Type 2. Type 1 typically occurs in children or young adults. Type 2 is more common in adulthood, particularly middle aged or older adults. Type 1 occurs when the body does not make insulin. Type 2 occurs when the body doesn’t make enough insulin or isn’t able to properly use the insulin it does make.
Managing Diabetes
No matter what type of diabetes a person has, it’s vital they understand the disease and how best to manage it for themselves. Improperly managed diabetes can lead to blood sugar that is too high. In time, blood sugar that is too high can lead to very serious health complications in the heart, kidneys and eyes. Diabetes can be complicated and scary however the good news is, it’s manageable.
Diabetes can be overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be.
If you have a diagnosis of diabetes, it’s important you follow the recommendations your provider has given you. Tracking your blood sugars at home, watching your diet, taking your prescribed diabetic medication, staying active and keeping up with your routine lab work and regular provider appointments are all key in managing your diabetes.
For more information on diabetes in older adults, visit the National Institute on Aging site. This website has very useful information on not only the disease but also on treatment, management and resources. If you have specific questions or need help finding diabetic resources, please reach out to VITALity Catholic Healthcare Services and we will do our best to direct you to the appropriate resource. For now, here is a flyer and a video to get the conversation started.
