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| Knowledge is the first step to managing diabetes. |
by
Dianna Malkowski, Physician Assistant & Nutritionist
March
25 is the American Diabetes Association Alert Day, a one-day wake-up call
asking the public to take the Diabetes Risk Test. I encourage everyone to take
this test to find out if they’re at risk for developing type 2 diabetes.
The
annual American Diabetes Association Alert Day was created to encourage the
public to take the Diabetes Risk Test, share it, and start living a healthy,
active lifestyle, according to the American Diabetes Association.
People
who may be at risk for type 2 diabetes include those who are over the age of
45, overweight, lead sedentary lifestyles and have a family history of the
disease. Symptoms can develop slowly. Although being diagnosed with type 2
diabetes can be frightening, early intervention can help make the disease more
manageable.
Strategies
include a lifelong commitment to healthy eating, physical activity and blood
sugar monitoring. Diabetes must carefully watch the amount of sugar,
carbohydrates and calories they eat. For patients who can’t control their
diabetes with diet and exercise alone, doctors may prescribe medications or
insulation therapy. It’s also essential to keep skin clean, moisturized and
protected.
The
following symptoms of type 2 diabetes due to high blood sugar are courtesy of
the Mayo Clinic:
• Increased thirst, hunger and
frequent urination
• Weight loss, fatigue and/or blurred
vision
• Slow-healing sores or frequent
infections
• Areas of darkened skin in folds and
creases
Type
2 diabetes is a chronic condition that affects the way a body metabolizes its
main source of fuel: sugar, also known as glucose. Although there is no cure,
the condition is manageable and even preventable in some cases.
Individuals
with type 2 diabetes, especially those who are overweight, can have increased
risk and severity of incontinence. According to The Simon Foundation for
Continence, an unhealthy weight can cause incontinence from the increased
weight placed on the pelvic floor muscles. The CareGiver Partnership offers
more than 500 incontinence products, samples to try before buying and helpful,
confidential advice. Read more about healthy eating and skin care for diabetics
on our blog.
Take
the fast, free and easy American Diabetes Association Type 2 Diabetes Risk Test
online, or ask your Walgreen’s pharmacist for a copy of it. Although Diabetes
Alert Day is a one-day event, the risk test is available year-round.
Dianna
Malkowski is a Board Certified Physician Assistant and Mayo Clinic trained
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