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We can help you control your diabetes. For an appointment, call
208-883-6341
.
How diabetes
DIABETES
isn’t kind to the body. From head to toe, the disease can take
a toll. Luckily, some complications may be avoided or delayed with good diabe-
tes control. But what does that involve?
For starters, managing your blood sugar (glucose) is essential. You also
need to meet recommended blood pressure and blood cholesterol targets,
follow your physician’s advice about lifestyle changes (such as not smoking),
and take any medications you’re prescribed. It’s all worth it to reduce your
risk for diabetes problems that may a ect your:
Teamup.
Our diabe-
tes educators want to
team up with you to
help you manage your
diabetes. Join us at 4 p.m. on
the rst Tuesday of every month for
our free class in the Gritman Confer-
ence Center. Call
208-883-6341
.
Sources: American Diabetes Association; National Institute of
Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases
Eyes.
Elevated blood sugar
can increase your risk for eye
diseases such as glaucoma or
retinopathy, which can lead to
vision loss and blindness. The
damage can start before you notice
anything wrong with your eyesight, so it’s vital
that you have annual eye exams. This can help
spot problems before severe vision loss occurs.
Heart.
Heightened blood
sugar levels damage blood
vessels, increasing the risk
for heart disease as well as
stroke—the biggest health
problems for people who have
diabetes. To help protect against com-
plications, keep your blood pressure
and cholesterol controlled—and have
an A1C blood sugar test at least twice
a year.
Teeth.
People who have
diabetes may be prone to
bacterial infections around
the gums that may lead to
tooth loss. Blood sugar control,
regular brushing and ossing,
and dental checkups at least
twice a year are good ways to help
preserve a healthy smile.
Kidneys.
These organs
lter waste products from
the blood, but high blood
sugar can overwork them. If the
kidneys fail, a person will need di-
alysis or a kidney transplant. Ask your doctor
about tests that help detect kidney disease
early, when treatments may help prevent
kidney failure.
Poorly controlled
diabetes is a leading
cause of nontraumatic
amputations, blindness
and kidney failure.
damages
the
body
Feet.
Poor blood ow
and nerve damage
from long-standing
high blood sugar can
contribute to foot
ulcers—sores that can
become infected and lead to amputation.
Damaged nerves can prevent a person
from even feeling a sore. Check your feet
daily, and let your doctor know immedi-
ately if you discover an ulcer.
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