Diabetes is a dangerous condition that can affect many different parts of the body. People with diabetes often have to make lifestyle changes to manage the disease. Unfortunately, some don't view it as a severe and long-term condition that can lead to life-threatening complications if not handled properly. Here are a few common mistakes:
1. Failure testing frequently
Diabetes testing is critical to managing the condition. People with diabetes should test their blood sugar levels at least once a day and more often when experiencing high or low blood sugar symptoms.
However, some people only test their blood sugar levels when they feel ill. It can lead to severe problems if their blood sugar levels are too high or too low, and they don't realize it. Stock enough Contour®Next meter test strips so you don't run out.
2. Failing to take medication as prescribed
Some people with diabetes may skip doses of their prescribed medication, take too little, or stop taking it altogether. Doing so can be extremely dangerous and lead to severe complications such as diabetic ketoacidosis, a life-threatening condition.
Always take your medication as prescribed, and don’t stop taking it without talking to your doctor first, even when you feel better or your blood sugar is under control.
3. Not checking blood sugar levels after meals
It's important to check blood sugar levels after meals to see how your food affects it. People with diabetes often don't do this and instead wait until their next scheduled blood sugar test. It can be dangerous because you may not realize that your blood sugar is starting to rise or fall, and you could end up in a diabetic coma.
4. Failure to exercise
Exercise is essential for everyone, but it's crucial for diabetes patients. Exercise lowers blood sugar levels and can improve your overall health. Not exercising can lead to weight gain, which may worsen symptoms of diabetes. Find an exercise routine that you enjoy and can stick with. Exercising also helps to manage stress levels and the body's response to insulin.
5. Taking too much sugar
Some with diabetes often think they have to give up all sweets and sugar, but this isn't true. However, overeating sugar can cause blood sugar levels to spike. When blood sugar spikes, it can lead to serious health problems like heart disease and stroke. Take note of your daily, weekly, and monthly sugar intake. Doing this will help you make more informed decisions about what you're eating.
6. Ignoring warning signs
People with diabetes often ignore the warning signs their body is giving them. They may feel high or low blood sugar symptoms but not take action because they think it will disappear. Ignoring warning signs is dangerous because if blood sugar levels get too high or too low, it can lead to a diabetic coma or death.
Other things often ignored are blurry vision, feeling tired all the time, and recurrent urinary tract infections. When you experience these symptoms, test your blood sugar levels and see your doctor.
Endnote
Lifestyle changes are essential for managing diabetes. Not following these guidelines can lead to serious health complications. Be proactive and take control to improve your overall quality of life and manage the condition effectively.
Photo: Nataliya Vaitkevich, Pexels