No one can tell who will
have diabetes complications. But experts think that keeping
blood-sugar levels close to normal helps to prevent or delay
trouble. High levels of sugar in the blood over time (poorly
controlled diabetes) may speed the onset of complications.
Good control of blood sugar
may help delay some complications.
Some people try hard to
control their blood sugars. But they still may have a complication.
Experts aren't sure why this happens. But even if you do have
complications, there is hope. So be sure to see your health care
practitioner regularly.
What can you do
now to avoid diabetes complications?
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First, get regular
checkups. You may not know that you have a complication. But
your health care practitioner can spot trouble long before
symptoms appear. Finding problems early is the best way to keep
complications from getting serious.
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Keep your appointments
with your health care practitioner -- even if you are feeling
fine. This includes your eye doctor and any other specialists
you may need to see.
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Also be aware of the
warning signs of trouble:
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Vision problems
(blurriness, spots).
-
Tiredness or pale
skin color.
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Obesity (more than
20 pounds overweight).
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Numbness or
tingling feelings in hands or feet.
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Repeated infections
or slow healing of wounds.
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Chest pain.
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Vaginal itching.
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Constant headaches
(This may be a symptom of high blood pressure.)
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If you have one or more
of these symptoms, tell your health care practitioner!
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And practice good
diabetes control. Taking care of your health makes medical
sense. So...
-
Keep blood-sugar
levels close to normal (control diabetes).
-
Control your
weight.
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Eat a healthy,
well-balanced diet.
-
Get regular
exercise.
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Have regular
checkups.
-
Check your feet
every day for minor cuts or blisters. Show them to your
health care practitioner.
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Do not smoke.
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If you have high blood
pressure or high blood cholesterol, follow the medical advice
you've been given.