How do I manage my type 1 diabetes on a daily basis?
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Managing type 1 diabetes is a lifelong commitment, but you'll be able to cope more effectively by taking one day at a time. You'll need to take insulin and monitor your blood glucose levels regularly as part of your daily treatment. You'll also need to monitor your food intake, especially carbohydrates, on a daily basis, as this affects blood sugar levels. Other factors, such as exercise, alcohol, and stress affect your blood sugar levels, so you should be aware of how your daily habits affect your blood sugar levels and alter these habits accordingly.
Managing type 1 diabetes is a lifelong commitment, but you'll be able to cope more effectively by taking one day at a time. You'll need to take insulin and monitor your blood glucose levels regularly as part of your daily treatment. You'll also need... More -
Healthwise answered:People who have type 1 diabetes need to work closely with their doctors to find the right balance of diet, insulin and exercise to keep their blood sugar levels within a target range. That combination will vary over time, especially for children.
Daily treatment for diabetes includes:
- Taking multiple insulin injections or using an insulin pump.
- Eating a healthful diet that spreads carbohydrate throughout the day.
- Getting physical activity.
- Checking blood sugar levels several times a day and, when necessary, during the night.
Other steps to take - People with type 1 diabetes also need to:
- Wear medical identification at all times so that, in case of emergency, health professionals can see that they have diabetes.
- Treat high and low blood sugar levels quickly to prevent an emergency.
- Take extra care of their feet, gums and teeth to prevent problems that may develop because of high blood sugar.
- Know how to adjust their diet or insulin doses when they are sick or when they become pregnant.
- Have regular medical checkups to monitor the disease and adjust treatment as needed.
People who have type 1 diabetes need to work closely with their doctors to find the right balance of diet, insulin and exercise to keep their blood sugar levels within a target range. That combination will vary over time, especially for... More -
Amy Campbell answered:First, assemble your diabetes team, which will likely include an endocrinologist (a diabetes doctor), a nurse educator and a dietitian. You might have other members of your team, too, such as your pharmacist, an exercise physiologist, a podiatrist and a behavioral health specialist. Your team can help you decide how to best manage your diabetes -- for example, you may decide to go on an insulin pump or learn carbohydrate counting. You'll need to learn about blood glucose monitoring, sick day care, foot care, meal planning and physical activity, as well as how to manage high and low blood glucose. In addition, you'll need to stay on top of the various tests and exams that you'll need regularly, such as your A1C, blood pressure, lipids, eye exam and vaccines. Learn as much as you can about your diabetes. Your nurse educator and dietitian will help you with this, and consider attending diabetes classes in your community, where you'll meet other people with diabetes, too.First, assemble your diabetes team, which will likely include an endocrinologist (a diabetes doctor), a nurse educator and a dietitian. You might have other members of your team, too, such as your pharmacist, an exercise physiologist, a... More
