Over 34 million people in the United States have diabetes, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The number of individuals who struggle with this condition also continues to increase across the globe.
Patients must learn how to manage this lifelong disease to avoid complications, decrease mortality risk, and maintain a good quality of life. Thankfully, many health professionals are trained and capable of providing diabetes care.
Comprehensive Patient Education
When patients come in for diabetes management, medical health professionals have the task of educating them. Many clinics and care centers offer comprehensive education programs to help their patients better understand their condition. They cover various topics, including an in-depth discussion about insulin and the different types of diabetes.
Nutrition and Weight Management
Managing diabetes also requires you to pay attention to your diet and exercise.
Your doctor will assist you in creating a balanced meal plan, often with a registered nutritionist’s assistance. These meals should include foods that contain high levels of fiber to keep your blood sugar levels stable while also being low in calories and fat. Whole grains, vegetables, fruits, and lean proteins all fit into this category. You also have to decrease your intake of refined carbohydrates, saturated fats, and of course, sugar.
Your provider will also help you measure portion sizes, so you know how much to eat at each meal. Likewise, they’ll show you how to understand nutrition labels on food items better.
Further, diabetes care includes assisting patients with weight management, which can positively impact your blood sugar control. Excess weight also puts individuals at a higher risk of developing diabetes. Make sure you consult your doctor about safe weight loss methods and an exercise plan to help you stay active.
Training on Home Glucose Monitoring
During each visit, your doctor will check your glucose levels. You will also have to monitor it closely at home every day. Thus, health care providers often offer training on glucose monitoring at home. They’ll show you how to use blood glucose meters, effectively utilize its features, and accurately evaluate its readings.
Doctors advise patients with diabetes to note the results each time they check their glucose levels. Even if the meter already has the feature of self-recording, you should keep a written record just in case.
Scheduled Check-ups and Maintenance
If you have diabetes, your doctor will ask you to attend frequent routine appointments to examine you. During these visits, they will check your blood glucose average through an A1 test. This measures your average blood glucose level over three months. Based on the results, your doctor may make changes to your treatment plan, from lifestyle changes to oral medications and insulin therapy.
Professional Diabetes Care in Rochester, NY
While the responsibility of managing diabetes mainly falls on you, you’re not on this journey alone. Many health care providers who specialize in diabetes management are ready to assist and guide you with diabetes care. They do this through patient education, nutrition and weight management, monitoring your glucose levels, and continuous care through regular check-ups.
The providers at the Cornerstone Urgent Care Center can help you with chronic disease management. We provide immediate, expert medical services while keeping your comfort and care as our primary concern.
For questions and concerns, you may call (585) 207-0088. Our walk-in clinic in Rochester, New York, is open 7 days a week, including holidays. You may call us ahead or send us a message to let us know you are coming. We look forward to helping you!
