Thursday, September 4, 2008

How to Improve Your Health as a Diabetic

from wikiHow - The How to Manual That You Can Edit

This is not a cure but rather tips for improving and preserving the health of a diabetic. According to health experts, type 1 diabetes cannot be cured, because it is a form of pancreatic dysfunction, which results when insulin producing cells cannot make enough insulin to process glucose in the body. Type 2 diabetes, however, can usually be prevented or controlled by diet and exercise, because Type 2 diabetes is typically the result of insulin resistance, which is caused by physical inactivity and poor diet.

Steps

Drink an ampalaya (bitter gourd/bitter melon) tea. It is well known for helping diabetic patients to maintain their blood sugar at healthy levels. Banaba tea is one of the best sources of plantisul (plant insulin). Consult your endocrinologist, diabetes educator, or dietitian before beginning this or any alternative treatment.
Maintain a healthy diet. Follow the advice of your doctor or diabetes educator.
Exercise. If it is medically safe, start exercising 30 minutes a day. A 30-minute walk at a good pace for the diabetic individual will help to reduce blood sugar, and possibly the amount of medication needed. Have a plan for exercise when taking insulin or using blood sugar lowering drugs, because exercise lowers blood glucose, and can possibly result in hypoglycemia.
Take doctor prescribed insulin regularly, and on time!
Attend all laboratory tests and doctors' appointments.
Have your hemoglobin A1c test done every 3 months or as directed by your physician. Aim for a value of 6.5% or less as recommended by the American Diabetes Association. This test measures your average blood sugar levels over a period of 2-3 months and is a strong indicator of overall glycemic control.
Stop smoking! Smoking raises blood sugar levels, damages blood vessels which can lead to heart disease and stroke, and adversely affects circulation due to constriction of blood vessels. Heart disease, stroke, and circulation problems are frequent complications of diabetes, even in non-smokers; a diabetic smoker is "adding fuel to the fire", greatly increasing his or her risk of developing these complications.
Be prepared for hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia. These conditions are more common in patients taking insulin, but can occur in other situations.
- Hyperglycemia, or high blood sugar, occurs when the blood sugar level is above 126mg/dL (7mmol/L). It can occur as a result of stress, insufficient insulin, too much food, or an issue with oral diabetes medication. Symptoms include frequent thirst, frequent urination, unusual hunger, fatigue, and irritability. Untreated hyperglycemia is a leading cause of complications from diabetes, thus it is important to recognize and treat hyperglycemia as directed by your physician. Treatment includes adjusting insulin treatment (frequently, patients using insulin will simply take a correction shot based on the level of their blood sugar), or adjusting oral medications. While patients taking insulin will typically adjust their insulin dosages to lower blood sugar, patients taking oral medication or patients using diet or exercise will typically have to adjust their carbohydrate intake to control blood sugar. Untreated hyperglycemia can rapidly progress into diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), which is life-threating and frequently requires hospitalization. Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, unquenchable thirst, diarrhea, and muscle cramps. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms of DKA, SEEK URGENT MEDICAL ATTENTION.
- Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, occurs when the blood sugar level is below 70mg/dL (3.9mmol/L). It can occur as a result of stress, too much insulin, too little food, or an issue with oral diabetes medication. Symptoms include shakiness, tremor, rapid heart beat, sweating, and clamminess. Untreated hypoglycemia can rapidly progress into seizures, coma, or death; thus, it is very important that hypoglycemia is quickly recognized and treated as directed by your physician. In any situation where the patient believes that he or she is suffering from hypoglycemia, the patient should confirm with a blood sugar test; however, the patient should treat immediately if they feel that the hypoglycemia is severe and it would take too long to test. Treating the low blood sugar is paramount. Mild hypoglycemia can be treated by the patient and usually involves consuming 15 grams of carbohydrates, in the form of sugary (not diet) soda, juice, glucose tablets/gel, or occasionally a small snack in the form of crackers, pretzels, hard candy, etc. It is important to note that candy bars such as Snickers, Twix, Milky Way, etc. contain a high amount of fat and can slow the absorption of sugar from the candy bar; therefore, it is not advised that patients use high-fat candy bars to treat hypoglycemia as the blood sugars may not rise fast enough to prevent any further and possibly severe drops in blood sugar. Once the patient has treated, they should wait 10-15 minutes and test his or her blood sugar to confirm that blood sugar levels have risen above 70mg/dL (3.9mmol/L). If the blood sugar levels are still below 70mg/dL (3.9mmol/L), the patient should repeat the treatment process, and if upon testing again after 10-15 minutes blood sugar levels are still below 70mg/dL (3.9mmol/L), the patient should treat once again and consult his/her physician immediately. If the patient has a meal planned within the next 30 minutes, the patient should continue as normal and continue to monitor his or her blood glucose to check for any additional episodes of hypoglycemia. If his/her next meal is beyond 30 minutes, the patient should consume a small snack (1/2 of a sandwich and an 8oz glass of milk, or a pack of peanut butter crackers). Severe hypoglycemia is an urgent medical condition that requires immediate intervention, and can frequently require intervention from a third-party. It can occur when blood sugars fall very rapidly, or when the patient suffers from hypoglycemia unawareness. Severe hypoglycemia can result in fainting, seizures, or death. Treatment may or may not be possible by the patient themselves due to significant impairment, however, the main idea is still the same: raise blood sugar levels as rapidly as possible. This can be achieved using oral carbohydrates, but in a situation where a patient is unconscious, unable to swallow, or having a seizure, outside intervention is necessary. Two types of injections are used to treat severe hypoglycemia: glucagon and intravenous dextrose solution (D50). Glucagon is a hormone produced in the body that acts an opposite to insulin; it blocks the blood sugar lowering ability of insulin and stimulates the liver to release glucose into the blood from energy reserves. When used as treatment for severe hypoglycemia, the solution is injected intramuscularly and produces results in 1-2 minutes. The patient will typically feel nauseated and may vomit shortly after injection. However, this treatment is ineffective if the liver is depleted of glucose stores and in such cases, intravenous dextrose (sugar) solution is necessary. IV dextrose will awaken an unconscious person whom is suffering from severe hypoglycemia in seconds. IV dextrose is commonly referred to as "D50" by emergency medical technicians and paramedics.

Tips

Always follow your doctor's prescriptions and guidelines, including, but not limited to: checking blood sugar as directed, taking insulin/medication as directed, following a meal schedule if necessary, and attending all doctors' appointments and laboratory tests.
Regular eye, kidney, and foot checkups are advisable.
Communication with one's health care professional is essential in developing an effective treatment plan for diabetes; by working together with one's health team, a diabetic is much better prepared to handle the illness.
Have and know how to use a glucagon emergency kit, and instruct family members and roommates on how to use it. It may save your life if you have severe low blood sugar and are unconscious. The paramedics may not arrive in time.

Warnings

This is not a substitute for professional medical care.
If you have "cotton-mouth" and are urinating frequently, you may be in ketoacidosis: seek urgent medical attention!
If you feel faint/lightheaded, have a quickened heart rate, and are clammy, you may be having an insulin reaction - immediately treat for hypoglycemia as directed by your physician.

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Sources and Citations

www.joslin.org
www.cdc.gov/diabetes/index.htm
www.jdf.org
www.diabetes.org
www.stormpages.com/sbhagwat/ "It's Your Life - A Practical Handbook for Chronic Ailments" & "The Caregiver's Manual" (free ebooks)

Article provided by wikiHow, a collaborative writing project to build the world's largest, highest quality how-to manual. Please edit this article and find author credits at the original wikiHow article on How to Improve Your Health as a Diabetic. All content on wikiHow can be shared under a Creative Commons license.

How to Live a Healthy Life As a Diabetic

from wikiHow - The How to Manual That You Can Edit

So, you've been diagnosed with diabetes. You're probably quite shocked, and you're wondering what you should do next. Read on!

Steps

Don't fret or get depressed. This is rule number one. You've got a condition which will affect you medically - don't let it hurt you emotionally as well.
Discuss your health with your health professional. This is important. Always seek medical advice.
Look at your diet. Make sure you are eating a healthy diet. The recommended diet for you is the same as the recommended diet for everyone. Take a look at this article for more information.
Exercise regularly. Try going for a walk with your mates, or going to the gym. Different exercise works for different people, so experiment.
Watch what you're putting into your body. A common mistake is believing that having diabetes means you can't eat any sugar. The truth of the matter is that you have to eat the right amount, and balance it with exercise and medication (for some diabetics). Discuss your individual needs with your health professional.

Tips

Discuss anything to do with your condition with your health professional.
Join a diabetes organisation - they can provide you with support and information. Also consider joining a local diabetes support group.

Warnings

Make sure to follow the advice of your health professional. Consult them before you follow any information outlined on the Internet.

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Article provided by wikiHow, a collaborative writing project to build the world's largest, highest quality how-to manual. Please edit this article and find author credits at the original wikiHow article on How to Live a Healthy Life As a Diabetic. All content on wikiHow can be shared under a Creative Commons license.

How to Cope With a Diagnosis of Diabetes

from wikiHow - The How to Manual That You Can Edit

A diagnosis of diabetes is scary and can be life changing. Now you have to figure out what to do next, where to go for information and for help.

Steps

First things first

Don't blame yourself. Maybe you could have changed things in the past, but nothing can be changed now. Blaming yourself will not help anything.
Trust your health care team to know how to help you and do what they tell you to do.
You are not alone, approximately 20 million Americans have this disease too.
Start slowly, you have a lot to assimilate and learn, if you try to do too much too fast you will become overwhelmed.
Find out everything you can about diabetes. Knowledge is power.
Talk about your disease.
Ask questions...and then ask more questions.
Take care of yourself. Diabetes is a serious disease, but does not need to be debilitating.

Things to do right away

Call your insurance company to find out exactly what they will cover and how often. Most insurance companies cover at least some of the cost of diabetic supplies and medication.
You will probably need a blood glucose meter and strips, a lancet device and lancets.
You will want to record your blood glucose every time you take it, you can do this in a small notebook.
If your insurance will cover it and your doctor suggests it, make an appointment to see a dietitian.
Let your family and friends know, they will also need to know how treat you if there is an emergency.
Write down any questions you may want to ask your health care team.

Questions to ask your doctor

Do I have type 1 or 2 diabetes?
What is my A1c reading?
How often should I check my blood glucose?
What should my target blood glucose be?
How often do I need to see a doctor?
What diet should I follow?
Should I see a dietitian?
How often should I eat?
Do I have any damage to my organs or nerves?
What medications do I need to take and what do they do?
What side effects do I need to be aware of?
How often and what type of exercise should I do?

For more information

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Article provided by wikiHow, a collaborative writing project to build the world's largest, highest quality how-to manual. Please edit this article and find author credits at the original wikiHow article on How to Cope With a Diagnosis of Diabetes. All content on wikiHow can be shared under a Creative Commons license.

How to Check Feet for Complications of Diabetes

from wikiHow - The How to Manual That You Can Edit

Diabetes is a chronic disease that causes damage to the organs and the nerves, especially the peripheral nerves which extend into the feet. It is important to keep your feet clean and free of cuts, bruises or sores that may become infected. Every day you should check your feet. This can be done after or before shower or bath.

Steps

Obtain a mirror to examine your feet for sores, bruises or other types of wounds.
Make sure to check your feet in good lighting.
Sit on a stool, bed or chair. Lift each foot and look at the top, side and back of each foot.
Look between each your toes.
Examine your nails for discolorations or thickening.
Pay attention for discolorations, bruises, cuts, sores, blisters, or areas of swelling or redness.
Make a note of anything unusual so you can tell your doctor at your next visit.

Tips

If you have areas of your feet that are numb, or you feel pins and needles, or burning, you may have peripheral neuropathy. See your doctor for treatment options.
Wash your feet every day with warm (not hot) soapy water. Rinse well and pat (don't rub) dry. Use a light lotion or petroleum jelly on dry areas, but not between your toes.
Always wear shoes and socks, or slippers.
To avoid injury to your feet, don't go barefoot or wear shoes that are tight.
Cut your nails monthly, or see your podiatrist if you are afraid you might injure your foot.

Warnings

If you see something that concerns you, make an appointment to see your doctor as soon as possible.
If you have any black or green areas on any part of your feet contact your doctor immediately.
Dry feet can crack and cause pressure sores, be sure to keep dry feet moisturized.
If you develop a foot ulcer, see your doctor immediately.

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Sources and Citations

Article provided by wikiHow, a collaborative writing project to build the world's largest, highest quality how-to manual. Please edit this article and find author credits at the original wikiHow article on How to Check Feet for Complications of Diabetes. All content on wikiHow can be shared under a Creative Commons license.

How to Prevent Type 2 Diabetes

from wikiHow - The How to Manual That You Can Edit

There are two types of diabetes. The one you hear about most in the media is Type 2. This type is caused by: stress, inadequate exercise and a poor diet - so it is up to you to make sure you do not get it. This type is covered in this How To.
Unfortunately, Type 1 cannot be prevented. It is impossible to prevent it, as it occurs naturally in some people's bodies.
Diabetes is what it is called when the pancreas, which creates insulin, stops working or your cells stop utilizing insulin created. Insulin is a hormone which lets sugar from your blood into the parts of your body which require it. When this vital hormone is missing, sugar builds up in your blood, which causes you to get ill.
Some people require an injection of insulin to control the sugar, while others need a tablet or maybe even nothing. Everyone with diabetes needs to have a healthy diet - and this is also what helps to prevent the occurrence of Type 2 diabetes.

Steps

Make sure you get at least 30 minutes of exercise each day. For example walking around your neighborhood each day is a good idea. The key is to use large muscle groups. You could also try going to the gym a couple of times a week.
Make sure you eat a balanced diet. Eat a little from each food group, and not too much of the bad stuff - like sugar, salt and fat.
Watch the amount of sugar or carbohydrates you put into your body. Like instead of drinking a regular soda, drink water. Diet soda is often considered a good alternative, but the best is water. unfortunately, most foods labeled as "sugar free" or "low-carb" actually contain artificial sweeteners, sugar alcohols, and other additives that create a hormonal mess inside your body, actually stimulating your body to STORE more fat and stimulate cravings! And foods labeled "whole grain" only have to contain a small fraction of whole grains where the majority can still be refined starches and sugars that spike your blood sugar faster than a sugar-laden soda! A common mistake is believing that preventing diabetes means not eating any sugar. The truth of the matter is that you have to eat the right amount. People with diabetes have to take care that they don't eat too much or too little sugar. A good rule is based on the understanding that everything we eat turns to "a blood sugar;" therefore, choose foods that will take some time to convert. for example, sugar takes no time to convert to sugar, where protein takes more time. the key is balance in your diet.
Drink plenty of water, because your body needs water. Water is better than any other drink if you need to keep hydrated. Water also fills you up so your desire to eat decreases.
Maintaining a healthy weight is also very important. Of course eating well and exercising will help do that.

Tips

Learning more about diabetes can help. For example read magazines about it.
Exercise with a friend! It'll help to pass the time.
Remember the differences between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. You cannot prevent Type 1.

Related wikiHows

Sources and Citations

Article provided by wikiHow, a collaborative writing project to build the world's largest, highest quality how-to manual. Please edit this article and find author credits at the original wikiHow article on How to Prevent Type 2 Diabetes. All content on wikiHow can be shared under a Creative Commons license.

How to Tell if You Have Diabetes

from wikiHow - The How to Manual That You Can Edit

If you believe that you may have diabetes, consult a medical professional immediately.
There are 2 main types of diabetes. Type 1, formerly known as juvenile diabetes, is more commonly diagnosed in children but can present at any age. Type 2, formerly known as adult-onset diabetes, is often subtle and may be due to aging or obesity. General signs that warrant further investigation:

Steps

Check to see if you have one or many of the following symptoms:
- SEEK URGENT MEDICAL ATTENTION IF YOU HAVE A FRUITY SMELL ON YOUR BREATH. This is a symptom of ketoacidosis caused by severe hyperglycemia, and requires urgent medical attention.
- Excessive thirst
- Excessive hunger
- Frequent urination
- Unexplained significant weight loss
- Fatigue (particularly after eating)
- Feeling irritable
- Poor wound healing
- Frequent or lingering infections
- Leg cramps (usually occurring as the undiagnosed disease worsens and mostly during the night)
- Blurred vision or changes in vision
See your health care provider for confirmation.

Tips

Risk factors for developing type 2 diabetes include being overweight or obese; being of African-American, Hispanic-American, Asian-American, Native-American, or Pacific-Islander descent; having a family history of diabetes; and having a history of gestational diabetes. If you have one or more of these risk factors, talk to your doctor about getting a fasting plasma glucose test.
The onset of hyperglycemia is known when a person’s glucose level goes beyond the ideal level, and although it can occur on its own, it is highly considered as the major symptom of Diabetes Mellitus. In fact, it is known to be the primary cause of several complications associated with diabetes. If left untreated, hyperglycemia can lead to more serious health issues, such as nerve damage (neuropathy), kidney damage or failure, blindness, and severe circulation problems resulting in difficult-to-treat infections that can progress into gangrene necessitating amputation (particularly in the lower extremities).

Warnings

SEEK URGENT MEDICAL ATTENTION IF YOU HAVE A FRUITY SMELL ON YOUR BREATH. This is a symptom of diabetic ketoacidosis that is often fatal if left untreated.
It is extremely important to consult with a medical professional immediately if you are exhibiting any of these symptoms; undiagnosed diabetes mellitus (Type 1 or Type 2) can progress to diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), which rapidly progresses into possible organ failure or death.

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Sources and Citations

Article provided by wikiHow, a collaborative writing project to build the world's largest, highest quality how-to manual. Please edit this article and find author credits at the original wikiHow article on How to Tell if You Have Diabetes. All content on wikiHow can be shared under a Creative Commons license.

REVEALED: The Root Cause for Diabetes

How To Play The Diabetes Game To Win

Thursday, September 4, 2008

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Dr.Archana & Dr.Vivek

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