November is diabetes awareness month, which makes it a great time to review some healthy living habits and remember the importance of preventative screening related to diabetes.
Cardiovascular disease is the number one cause of death in diabetics, and diabetics are twice as likely to suffer a stroke or heart disease compared to non-diabetics. We also see an increased risk of kidney disease, poor wound healing, neuropathy, and retinopathy. Luckily, all of these can be prevented or managed by taking control of your health.
1. Check your blood sugar and blood pressure on a regular basis.
2. Maintain a healthy weight, increase physical activity, and focus on reducing stress. If you're struggling with a healthy diet, ask your doctor about a nutrition consult.
3. If you’re a smoker, it's critical that you quit now.
4. Maintain routine follow-ups with your doctor to monitor your hemoglobin A1C, cholesterol levels, and kidney function.
5. Be sure to get an annual dilated eye exam and have a complete foot exam as well.
6. And finally, take all medications as ordered. If you have any negative side effects, contact your provider prior to stopping medications.
As we head into the holidays, be sure to make good choices to keep your diabetes under control!