Diabetes Awareness Month

Diabetes is a condition that raises blood sugar (glucose) levels in the body.

Types of Diabetes

1. Type 2 Diabetes: This occurs when the body doesn’t produce enough insulin or the cells don’t respond effectively to it.
2. Type 1 Diabetes: A lifelong condition where the immune system attacks and destroys insulin-producing cells.

About Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is a common, long-term condition that raises blood sugar levels. This can:

• Cause symptoms such as excessive thirst, frequent urination, and fatigue, although many people have no symptoms.
• Increase the risk of serious issues with the eyes, feet, heart, and nerves.
• Require lifestyle adjustments, medication, and regular health check-ups.
• Often link to being overweight, inactivity, or a family history of the condition, due to issues with the hormone insulin.

Many individuals may not realise they have type 2 diabetes, as symptoms can be mild or absent. Common symptoms include:

• Frequent urination
• Persistent thirst
• Feeling extremely tired
• Unintentional weight loss
• Persistent itching around the genital area or recurring thrush
• Slow-healing cuts or wounds
• Blurred vision

Risk Factors for Type 2 Diabetes

You’re more at risk if you:

• Are over 40 (or over 25 if you’re of Asian, Black African, or Black Caribbean descent)
• Have a close relative with diabetes
• Are overweight or inactive
• Are of Asian, Black African, or Black Caribbean background.

Diagnosing Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is often diagnosed through routine blood tests. If you notice any symptoms, it’s essential to consult your GP. To confirm the diagnosis:

1. Your GP will arrange a blood test to check glucose levels.
2. If levels are high, the GP will explain the findings and discuss next steps.
3. In the absence of symptoms, a second test is typically done to confirm.

During your appointment, the GP will discuss:

• What diabetes is and how high blood sugar affects your health
• Setting blood sugar level targets
• Regular checks to maintain health
• Treatment plans, which may include medication, dietary advice, and lifestyle adjustments.

Following diagnosis, you’ll likely need to:

1. Make dietary changes and increase physical activity.
2. Start medication, which may take time to adjust.
3. Attend regular diabetes check-ups.
4. Be aware of signs that may indicate other health issues.
5. Join a free NHS course, like Healthy Living for Type 2 Diabetes, to gain further support.

If your blood sugar levels are higher than average but not yet diabetic, your GP may refer you to an NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme to help reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

About Type 1 Diabetes

Type 1 diabetes leads to high blood sugar as the body stops producing insulin, a hormone essential for blood glucose control. Managing type 1 diabetes requires daily insulin injections, but you can continue to enjoy a full life with proper support.

Type 1 diabetes symptoms may appear suddenly and include:

• Constant thirst
• Frequent urination, especially at night
• Fatigue
• Unexplained weight loss
• Persistent thrush
• Blurred vision
• Wounds that heal slowly
• Fruity-smelling breath

If your GP suspects type 1 diabetes, they’ll conduct urine and blood glucose tests. A hospital assessment is often necessary for immediate diagnosis. Upon confirmation, a diabetes nurse will guide you through managing blood glucose and insulin injections.

Complications of Type 1 Diabetes

Possible complications include:

• Eye issues (e.g., cataracts, light sensitivity)
• Foot sores or infections
• Nerve damage causing pain, tingling, or numbness
• Kidney damage, potentially requiring dialysis or transplant
• Weakened immune system, heightening infection risk

Managing Type 1 Diabetes

To manage your diabetes effectively:

• Eat healthy snacks like unsweetened yoghurt, nuts, fruits, and vegetables
• Follow lifestyle recommendations from your doctor
• Monitor blood sugar regularly
• Attend health check-ups and consider diabetes education for ongoing support

Neuropathy and Foot Care

Diabetes can cause nerve damage (neuropathy), leading to:

• Numbness or tingling
• Issues with sexual health
• Digestive problems

If you notice changes, inform your GP or diabetes nurse promptly to prevent further nerve damage.

Foot care is crucial, as diabetes can reduce blood flow, impair healing, and cause numbness. Protect your feet by:

• Keeping them clean and dry
• Wearing well-fitted shoes
• Avoiding going barefoot outdoors

Check your feet daily for cuts, blisters, or other changes and schedule an annual foot examination with your GP or a foot specialist.

Eye Health

Diabetes can harm the blood vessels in your eyes, causing diabetic retinopathy, which may lead to vision loss if untreated. Regular diabetic eye screening can detect damage early. Annual screening is vital, as it’s different from a standard eye test.

Report any changes in your vision, such as:

• Blurred sight, especially at night
• Floaters in your vision
• Light sensitivity

Oral Health

Higher blood glucose levels can increase the risk of gum disease. Maintain oral health by:

• Brushing teeth twice daily or cleaning dentures
• Visiting the dentist regularly
• Avoiding smoking, as it weakens the immune system and hampers gum health

See your dentist if you experience sore gums, bleeding, or bad breath.