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Diabetes management deals with a combination of medication, regular monitoring of blood sugar levels, lifestyle changes, etc. It is also paramount that Diabetes patients work hand in hand with their healthcare providers for better management and regulation of blood sugar levels.
Going forward, In this article we will cover the medications and therapy for diabetes patients, the monitoring of blood sugar levels, the psychosocial aspects, and the directions in research and treatment of diabetes.
MEDICATIONS AND THERAPY FOR DIABETES
Some of the medications and therapies for diabetes include the following:
1. Oral Medication
Oral medication is often given to individuals with type 2 diabetes, to help lower their blood sugar levels. Different approaches can be employed here, including Metformin, which reduces glucose production in the liver and Improves insulin sensitivity. Sulfonylureas enable the pancreas to release more insulin. Other approaches include receptors, agonists and inhibitors.
2. Insulin therapy
This is mostly administered to type 1 diabetes patients. It is given to help regulate and maintain the blood sugar levels. It can be administered through injections or an insulin pump.
Source: Medical News Today
3. Lifestyle therapy
This is recommendable to all types of diabetes patients. Healthy living, eating, engaging in physical activities, and minimizing stress can help manage and prevent diabetes.
4. Bariatric surgery
This is required for obese patients with diabetes as it is difficult to control with other medications. This surgery can lead to a significant weight facilitating insulin production, which will help regulate blood sugar levels.
5. Glucose monitoring
Continuous monitoring involves regular checks of blood sugar levels helping individuals make better decisions.
6. Injections
Some of the medications recommended are injectable. They are administered to help regulate blood sugar levels aside from insulin therapy.
It is advisable for individuals to constantly go for medical checkups and closely work with medical personnel to come up with a specific treatment plan depending on the type and needs of the individuals.
MONITORING BLOOD SUGAR LEVEL
Monitoring the blood sugar level is one important aspect of managing diabetes. Below are ways to measure the blood sugar levels:
1. Frequency
The frequency at which blood sugar is being monitored varies. It depends on the type of diabetes, treatment options, medication, and others. Some persons may need to monitor their blood level multiple times a day while others don’t require that much monitoring.
2. Glucose meter
A glucose meter is a device. It involves the use of a lancet device to prick the fingertip to obtain a small amount of blood. The blood is then applied to a test strip which is inserted into the glucose meter and the blood sugar level will be displayed.
3. Target range
There are blood sugar ranges for diabetes patients. Work with healthcare providers to establish the blood sugar range as it depends on factors such as age, duration, conditions, etc.
4. Logbook
Have a logbook, to be used to record blood sugar recordings, physical activities, or any slight changes. This information can help healthcare providers to optimize treatment plans where necessary or optimize blood sugar control.
5. Training
Diabetes patients must know about their health conditions. They should be educated on the effects, management, and interpretation of diabetes results.
6. Quick response
Patients should be familiar with the symptoms of high and low blood sugar levels and be aware of any changes in case of an emergency.
In conclusion, diabetes management is possible and it requires a positive approach towards it, from its medication to its psychosocial impact down to the directions and research.
Collaboration among healthcare professionals, healthcare organizations, etc, can also help in fostering a movement that educates the public about diabetes.