Image Credit: Towfiqu Barbhuiya
Comprehensive diabetes care is not just about managing blood sugar levels; it's about embracing a holistic approach that includes medical treatment, lifestyle modifications, education, and emotional support. By integrating these elements, individuals with diabetes can live a healthier and happier life. Always consult with healthcare providers to develop and adjust your personalized diabetes care plan.
Medical Management
Depending on the type of diabetes, treatment may involve insulin therapy, oral hypoglycemic agents, or other medications. Keeping track of blood glucose levels, HbA1c (glycated hemoglobin), cholesterol levels, and blood pressure is crucial. This helps adjust treatment plans and prevent complications.
Nutrition and Diet
Consuming a variety of foods in the right proportion helps manage blood glucose levels. Understanding how different foods can affect blood glucose will also help make informed dietary decisions.
Physical Activity
Exercising can improve insulin sensitivity. Consistency can also be built through customized exercise programs that consider individual preferences, physical limitations, and overall health.
Education and Self-Management
Knowledge is power. Understanding the disease, how to monitor blood glucose, recognize symptoms of hypo- and hyperglycemia, and manage daily routines is vital. Utilizing devices such as glucose meters, continuous glucose monitors (CGMs), and smart apps like BlueStar Diabetes can enhance self-management.
Mental Health
Managing diabetes can be stressful and emotionally taxing. Psychological support through counseling, support groups, or therapy can significantly improve quality of life. Engaging with community resources, family, and friends for emotional and practical support is beneficial.
Preventive Care and Regular Check-ups
Regular eye exams, foot exams, dental check-ups, and screenings for kidney function are essential to detect and prevent complications early. Vaccinations like flu and pneumonia shots are crucial for diabetes patients.
USFHP has partnered with Welldoc in the design of the award-winning diabetes app, BlueStar. This app makes it easy for you to track your glucose levels, exercise, meals and more by giving you real-time feedback that helps you feel more confident about managing your diabetes. Visit the App Store or Play Store on your smartphone to download the “BlueStar Diabetes” app and enter the access code: DM4U. For more information about BlueStar, call 1-888-611-4794.
The USFHP Primary Healthcare Plan provides routine doctor's visits, hospitalization, prescription coverage, preventative healthcare coverage, and specialty care. Visit usfhp.net or call 1-800- 241-4848. We can assist you Monday - Friday, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. (EST).