Proper diabetes care is important to minimize the complications the disease may cause. If blood sugar levels are constantly high, serious complications such as wounds, kidney failure, blindness, and nerve damage can arise. Low blood sugar levels can lead to fainting, confusion, and dizziness. Our Home Care Agency in Edgewood MD offers skilled nursing services carried out by a private duty nurse. Our nurse can educate diabetics on the importance of proper diabetes management.
People who have diabetes must make use of proper ways to control and monitor their blood sugar levels. These ways include the following:
- Do Not Skip Meals
Diabetics should not skip meals to avoid pushing their blood sugar higher. If the body does not get food for many hours, it fuels itself on glucose that the liver releases. Often, the liver of those with diabetes cannot sense if the blood already has sufficient glucose so it tends to pour out continuously.
Moreover, skipping meals can result in overeating that can leave people with diabetes to eat more than they should. It is important to note that some glucose-lowering medicines can cause the pancreas to release more insulin into the bloodstream. Skipping meals is also a no-no if you are taking insulin with injections since this can drop the blood sugar level.
- Recognize the Importance of Foot Care
Diabetes can lead to nerve damage in the extremities that often begins in the feet. That is why people with diabetes should practice proper foot care. It is imperative to keep the feet clean and dry. Those who have nerve damage may notice calluses, blisters, sores, or skin breaks so they need to inspect the feet daily. Caring Nurses Services has nurses who can take care of diabetic wounds. Walking barefoot should not be done.
- Quit Smoking
For people who have diabetes, smoking can make their disease worse. The habit raises blood sugar levels, causes inflammation and constricts blood vessels. Anyone who smokes is at risk of nerve damage, foot and leg infections, and kidney disease. But when quitting the habit, it is important to be mindful of food intake since quitting can lead to weight gain as they try to satisfy their cravings for nicotine.
- Stay Physically Active
Exercise reduces body fat and can help diabetics lose weight. Staying active is an important approach to controlling blood sugar levels and improving the response of the body to insulin. People with diabetes should exercise for thirty minutes at least five times every week. In order to stick to an exercise routine, it is necessary to find something a person can enjoy, whether it is walking, cycling, or dancing.
Do you have other tips to help people with diabetes manage their disease? Please feel free to share with us your ideas. If you want to know more about our Skilled Nursing Services, call us at 410-676-2222 or visit our website at www.caringnurse.org.
Disclaimer
Blogs, content and other media uploaded online are for informational purposes only. Contents on this website should not be considered medical advice. Readers are strongly encouraged to visit their physician for health-related issues.
