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When you have type 2 diabetes, you have a lot to do to care for yourself.
When you have type 2 diabetes, you have a lot to do to care for yourself.To keep it up, it can help to remember why you’re doing these things.As you may know, type 2 diabetes means there is too much sugar—or glucose—in your blood. This is calledhigh blood sugar.Too much glucose in your blood can damage the blood vessels that travel through your body.Over time, high blood sugar can lead to problems throughout your body, including with your eyes, heart andblood vessels, nerves, kidneys, and skin and feet.High blood sugar can also affect the body's immune system that helps fight infections.Here are seven things you can do now to manage type 2 diabetes and help prevent complications in the future.First up, keep your blood sugar in your target range. Diabetes affects each person's blood sugar leveldifferently. Work with your doctor to set your own target blood sugar range.Two: See your doctor regularly. Your doctor will look for early signs of complications. If complications aretreated early, the damage may be stopped, slowed, or possibly reversed. For example, your doctor will checkfor foot sores and whether any sensation has been lost.Between visits, be sure to get treatment for a foot problem right away, even if it’s something small like a blister.Be sure to check your own feet every day and always wear shoes and socks. And your doctor will ask you tohave your eyes examined by an eye specialist to screen for diabetic retinopathy. That’s because diabetes candamage the tiny blood vessels in the eyes.Three: Get your diabetes A1c test on the schedule. It's different from other tests, because it shows youraverage blood sugar level over the past 2 to 3 months. And the results also show how well your treatment planis working.Four: Take your medicines every day, as prescribed. Talk to your doctor if you are having trouble with amedicine.Five: Make healthy food choices. Plan your meals with diabetes in mind. Work with a registered dietitian if youneed food tips.Six: Be active. Being active is good for your diabetes and your whole body. It helps manage your bloodpressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol. Remember, it’s always a good idea to talk to your doctor beforebecoming more active.Seven: Don’t smoke, vape, or use nicotine or tobacco. If you need help quitting, talk to your doctor aboutprograms and medicines. They can make it easier to quit for good.It may feel like a lot to do and think about, but remember over time, high blood sugar can lead to seriousproblems.You know yourself best, so if you have any concerns or questions about your health, you can always call yourdiabetes care team.Remember, how well you care for yourself now may help you avoid complications later. Your future self willthank you.© The Wellness NetworkThis program is for informational purposes only. Publisher disclaims all guarantees regarding the accuracy, completeness,or suitability of this video for medical decision making. For all health related issues please contact your healthcare provider.© The Wellness Network
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