Eight Ways to Avoid Complications with Diabetes

V.C. Higuera
1. Stop Smoking: Diabetic smokers have a higher risk of dying from heart disease or stroke because smoking can gradually narrow the arteries and impeded normal blood flow. Additionally, smoking can destroy your immune system, and places you at great risk for developing kidney disease.

2. Regularly Monitor Blood Pressure: Diabetes can lead to damages blood vessels. If you also suffer from high blood pressure, a combination of the two conditions can be potentially life-threatening. Persons with high blood pressure might consider medication purposed to keep blood pressure levels low. Another way to keep a healthy level is to start a regular workout routine and alter your diet.

3. Watch Your Blood Sugar: It is important for people with diabetes to keep a healthy blood sugar level. Sadly, some people ignore the advice of their physicians and don't monitor their blood sugar. Failure to do so may result in a host of medical conditions such as blindness, kidney damage, and nerve damage

4. Examine Your Feet: Over time, diabetes can damage the nerves found in your feet. If this happens, you'll experience restricted sensations, and you're more likely to overlook a blister or scratch. Additionally, diabetes can limit blood flow to your feet, which can make is difficult for sores to heal.

5. Get a Physical: If your doctor diagnoses you with diabetes, don't pull a disappearing act. Many diabetes cases are mild and easily manageable. Nonetheless, your doctor will need to regularly monitor your blood pressure, blood sugar, and health to make sure that serious complications do not arise. Follow your physician's advice. Some people with diabetes only need to visit the doctor on an annual basis, whereas others may need to visit more frequently.

6. Get an Eye Exam: Because diabetes can cause nerve damage, it is vital for people with diabetes to get their eyes examined annually. An eye specialist may also recommend dilating the eyes. Many eye conditions are treatable when detected early.

7. Visit the Dentist: If you have high blood pressure, your body's ability to fight bacteria is limited. Because the mouth is home to several different types of bacteria, this puts you at great risk for developing gum disease. Visit your dentist twice a year.

8. Take an Aspirin: One way to lower your risk of heart disease is to take one aspirin daily. Talk to your doctor and ask about a recommended dosage. On average, the recommended daily dosage ranges from 81mg to 325mg.

Published by V.C. Higuera

Freelance personal finance and health writer from Chesapeake, VA  View profile

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