There are over 35 million known Americans living with diabetes, each facing unique challenges and questions in managing their health. Whether you're living with diabetes or seeking information about its risk factors, we're here to help. Here, we answer some of the most common concerns to provide you with clear, practical guidance and empower you on your journey with diabetes.
Can Diabetes be Cured?
Unfortunately, there is no cure for diabetes. However, with the right changes to diet and incorporating exercise in your routine, diabetes can go into remission. Maintaining these changes can reduce the need for medications over time. Here are some examples of habits to incorporate:
Implementing a healthier diet to help control unbalanced blood sugar.
Starting an exercise regimen, preferably twice a week but make sure to set realistic goals.
Stay on top of checking your blood sugar levels.
Be sure to schedule regular checkups (how often can vary on your condition), including specific foot exams, to prevent circulation issues and nerve damage. (For more information on foot care, please look here: https://triacentral.blob.core.windows.net/dev-storage/resources/Diabetes%20Foot%20Care%202.9.24%20(1).pdf)
Drink water regularly.
Get regular eye checks every 1-2 years depending on your blood sugar stability. (For more information on diabetes and eye care, please look here: https://triacentral.blob.core.windows.net/dev-storage/resources/Diabetes%20Eye%20Care%202023.pdf)
Avoid common risk factors, such as smoking, and manage stress effectively.
Brush regularly to avoid gum disease due to blood sugar increases. (For more information on diabetes and oral care, please look here: https://triacentral.blob.core.windows.net/dev-storage/resources/Diabetes%20and%20Oral%20Care%201.12.24.pdf)
What Risk Factors Lead to Diabetes?
Weight: Being overweight (BMI≥25) or obese (BMI≥29).
Diet: High carbohydrate diet.
Exercise: Low physical activity level (3 or less active days a week).
Age: 45 years or older.
Family history: Having a parent or sibling with type 2 diabetes.
Fatty liver: Diagnosis of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
History of gestational diabetes or delivery of a 9 pound or more baby.
Ethnicity: If you are of African American, Hispanic or Latino, American Indian, or Alaska Native descent.
How does Diabetes Affect my Body?
Having diabetes increases the risk of developing other chronic conditions. Diabetes affects many areas of the body including the following:
Heart: Increases the risk of heart disease (heart attack and stroke)
Kidneys: Reduces ability to remove excess sugar and waste from the blood leading to acute kidney injury or chronic kidney disease.
Small Blood Vessels: Reduces blood flow to small blood vessels.
Eyes: Damage to the back of the eyes can lead to vision loss.
Nerves: Damage to nerves that can cause numbness in feet and hands.
Teeth and Gums: Increases risk of bacteria in the mouth, causing damage to teeth and gums.
Where Can I be Tested for Diabetes?
Testing for diabetes is available through routine blood work with a health care provider. Blood glucose and hemoglobin A1c are labs that can be done to determine if you have prediabetes or diabetes.
How Tria Can Help
Managing diabetes can feel overwhelming when all you need is straightforward guidance. Tria Health recognizes these challenges and offers personalized consultations with pharmacists who serve as trusted partners in your healthcare journey. These professionals review your health comprehensively and help answer any of your questions and concerns, ensuring you understand your condition and how to manage it. Tria’s services are available through select health plans, so if you have access, don’t miss out on the opportunity to meet with a pharmacist who can provide clarity and empower you to manage your diabetes, and your general health, confidently.
Questions
For any questions related to your health, medications, or chronic condition(s), you can reach out to the Tria Health Desk at 913-322-8456.