The Accredited Family of Home Care Services is bringing diabetes awareness to you, because knowledge is power.
Diabetes Awareness Facts
November is Diabetes Awareness Month.
- Americans with Diabetes – 1 in 11 Americans have diabetes today, 29 million people. It’s estimated that these numbers will rise as the numbers of senior citizens grows & the risk for type 2 diabetes increases with age.
- Type 2 Diabetes – Type 2 diabetes is almost always preventable and can often be “cured” with lifestyle changes. Having a caregiver can help you reduce our risk of Type 2 diabetes in a number of ways:
- Diet Changes – Our home care team members can help you cook healthier and shop healthier for options that promote weight control.
- Get Moving – Having a caregiver allows you to get up and move around more safely. Increasing activity is one of the best ways to battle against type 2 diabetes.
- Knowing Your Numbers – Part of reducing your risk for Type 2 diabetes is by knowing your fasting A1C levels. We can help you get to regular appointments with your doctor & out for regular blood testing.
- Reduce Your Stress – A large part of stress is trying to keep up with the everyday “chores” of life. A caregiver can help with light housekeeping, shopping, medication reminders and more; taking the stress of making sure everyday chores are taken care of without you ever having to worry.
- Risk – 86 million Americans are at risk for diabetes. Know what the risk factors are and let us help you reduce your risk.
- Deaths – Diabetes is the 7th leading cause of death.
- Types of Diabetes – The two most common are type 1 and type 2 Some women can develop gestational diabetes when they are pregnant. Click on each of the types to find out more about each. Type 2 diabetes represents about 95% of all diabetic diagnoses and is the most common type.
Diabetes Can Take Your Life Over
When you have diabetes every action in your life is dictated by it. The food you eat, the way you socialize, how you feel, your overall health and your quality of life will all be affected by the disease.
The possible effects of diabetes:
- Digestive issues (often caused by medications to control insulin levels)
- Erectile dysfunction in men
- Coronary heart disease
- Eye problems (click here to find out more)
- Increased risk of strokes
- Kidney disease
- Nerve damage (neuropathy information)
- Fatigue from sleep issues
And yet, as much as diabetes affects your overall health and increases your risk for many other health issues; it is the one disease that is often avoidable and manageable with lifestyle changes.
Diabetes Symptoms & Pre-diabetes
There are some signs that you could be diabetic or pre-diabetic.
- Excessive and/or Constant Thirst
- Frequent or Excessive Urination (usually more than 3 liters/day)
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Weight Loss or Gain
- Blurred Vision
- Dizziness
- Genital Itching
- Slower than Normal Healing Process
- High A1C Levels Consistently in your blood work
These can be common symptoms of diabetes that would point to further investigation by your doctor.
YOU Are in Control
Remember, YOU can control and manage your diabetes or pre-diabetes through lifestyle changes and WE can help. Please share this information, especially through November during Diabetes Awareness Month 2016!
Cited Works:
The American Diabetes Association Website
Diabetes UK Website
Images Provided by The American Diabetes Association