Diabetes is a chronic health condition that affects how your body turns food into energy.
Your body breaks down most of the food you eat into sugar (glucose) and releases it into your bloodstream. When your blood sugar goes up, it signals your pancreas to release insulin. Insulin acts like a key to let the blood sugar into your body’s cells for use as energy.
You are the most important member of our diabetes team! You, the patient, do the day to day things to manage your diabetes. Choosing healthy foods, being physically active, taking your medication, and checking your blood sugar help you stay on the path toward a healthier you.
- At least twice a year have your A1c drawn!
- Have a dilated eye exam yearly.
- Get a flu shot yearly.
- Have a complete foot exam done yearly.
- Check your kidney function
- Get hepatitis B vaccination for all unvaccinated adults with diabetes, younger than 60 years of age.
- Discuss with your healthcare provider regarding the pneumococcal vaccine.
- Keep your scheduled doctor appointments at least twice a year.
Hypoglycemia or low blood sugar
- A few of the symptoms of hypoglycemia include sweating, shaking, feeling very hungry.
- Your blood sugar is too low if it is under 70.
- Prevention is important with consistent meal times.
- Treatment includes 1/2 glass of orange juice.
- Never drive a vehicle if your blood sugar is too low.
- Know your A1C
- The A1C lab test is a 2-3 month average blood sugar. This test should be drawn at least twice a year.
Diabetes Team Members
- You the patient are the most important
- Your OCHS physician
- The Diabetes Case Manager
- Eye doctor
- Dentist
- Medical Assistant
- Foot doctor
- Pharmacist
Meal Planning
- Consume three meals a day; be consistent with meal times.
- Fill your plate once.
- Half of your plate should be vegetables.
Medications
Ask your doctor or pharmacist the correct time to administer your medicine.
To speak with the diabetes educator/ case manager please call: 407-943-8600
