Lifeclinic: Blood Pressure Monitors & Health Stations
Glucose Control: Benefits | Dangers | Testing | Diet | Exercise | Special Times | Tips

    
Glucose Control - Special Times
 
Stress | Sickness | At Work | In Travel | Working with your health care team | Obstacles to good self-care

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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