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Diabetes Blood Sugar

If you feel unusually tired, or have the need to urinate more often, you may have diabetes. You may find yourself extremely thirsty, or your weight may change for no apparent reason. People who have diabetes may also experience numbness or tingling in the hands and feet. You may also have recurring infections. Perhaps you’ve had a cut or bruise that seems to be taking a long time healing. Alternatively, you may be experiencing sexual problems, or blurred vision. These are all symptoms of diabetes.

For people with diabetes, blood sugar levels are higher than normal. This is because you don’t maintain the correct levels of a hormone called insulin. It is produced in the pancreas. Insulin helps your cells absorb and use glucose for energy. If you aren’t using insulin correctly, or don’t have enough, then the glucose remains in your blood. Once you have been diagnosed with diabetes, blood sugar levels will be your key indicator of your health.

Type one diabetics cannot produce any insulin at all. This accounts for about ten per cent of all cases, and usually occurs in childhood and youth. Type one diabetics will need to use insulin to control their diabetes blood sugar. Type 2 diabetes is the most common form and usually shows up in adults. Life style changes and weight management may help in type two diabetes blood sugar control. Insulin injections may also help control diabetes blood sugar levels.

If you have diabetes, blood sugar control is crucial. Diabetes is the fourth leading cause of death. It can lead to kidney disease, heart conditions, blindness, amputation, and sexual problems. A blood glucose meter will be necessary so you can test blood sugar levels at a variety of times throughout the day. A blood glucose monitoring kit comes with a lance, and lancets to prick your finger for a drop of blood. It also comes with test strips where you place the blood, and then insert the strip into the meter. If you have diabetes blood sugar levels must be monitored constantly. Diabetes blood sugar levels can vary throughout the day. They will be lowest in the morning before breakfast, and highest within a few hours after eating.

Insulin isn’t a cure for diabetes, but will help you manage the disease. Insulin cannot be taken orally as digestive acids degrade it. Insulin must be injected into the layer of fat below the skin. There are several tools you can use to administer insulin. You can use syringes, pens, or pumps. Some people may be able to use an inhaler. Your doctor will help determine the correct dose to maintain your target diabetes blood sugar levels.

Some people with type two diabetes can control blood glucose through diet and exercise. A dietician can help you put together a diabetes diet to balance carbohydrates, proteins and fats. Weight management and exercise can also help balance insulin production, as can stress reduction.

People who are over 40 should be tested for diabetes. So should people of Hispanic, Aboriginal, African and Asian descent. Mothers, who experienced a temporary condition called gestational diabetes, may also be more at risk for type two diabetes. People with a close relative who has diabetes should also be tested. High blood pressure or cholesterol can also be a sign.

Although insulin isn’t a cure, it is an effective way to control diabetes. People with diabetes blood sugar conditions need to practice a diabetes management plan. This can help you lead a full and productive life.

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