Glucose Control: Benefits |
Dangers |
Testing |
Diet |
Exercise |
 Special Times |
Tips
Working with your doctor
There are
a lot of things to keep track of when it comes to getting good care. One of the
best things you can do is to familiarize yourself with the Standards of Care of the
American Diabetes Association (ADA). You can call the ADA at 1-800-DIABETES to ask
for a copy.
Because there
are a number of tests and evaluations that should be performed regularly, you can
use lifeclinic.com to track your glucose levels,
to chart your office visits and to
record procedures that you have had.
Keeping good records will help you get the care you need.
Most people
with diabetes who use insulin should see their doctor at least every three months.
If you're being treated with pills or managing your diabetes with diet and exercise,
you should go to the doctor every four to six months. If you're having trouble
controlling your blood sugar, you'll need to see the doctor more often.
When to see the doctor
You should
tell your doctor if you change your diet, exercise or have any new illness. If
you're showing signs of complications such as symptoms of eye, nerve or kidney
problems, call the doctor.
Tips for
your team
Here are some tips to help you
work with your health care team to prevent complications from diabetes:
- Have a glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) or similar test performed every three to
six months.
- Be sure your blood pressure is checked at every visit.
- Have your cholesterol tested once each year.
- You should have a microalbuminuria test annually. This test looks for protein
in the urine, which is a sign of kidney disease.
- Your doctor should test the ability of each of your feet to feel a plastic
bristle called a monofilament every one to three years. This is done to indicate
nerve disease.
- Have an eye exam once a year. If you belong to an HMO, you may have to ask for
a referral.
- If you're a smoker, your doctor should be talking to you about how to quit and
medications that can help you quit.
You should
expect that your doctor will review your blood sugar records with you, talk to you
about ways to eat healthy, or review finger-sticking or self-monitoring techniques.
Your doctor should refer you to see a diabetes educator and a dietitian every three
years.
Tips source:
Irl B. Hirsch, MD, associate professor of Medicine, University of Washington School
of Medicine, Seattle. 'How to Get Great Diabetes Care' (order #4811-01) by Dr. Hirsch is
available by calling the American Diabetes Association, 1-800-232-6733.
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