DIABETES WEEK

Diabetes is a serious complex condition which can affect the entire body. If complications develop, diabetes impacts quality of life and can decrease life expectancy.

Currently, there is no cure; however, you can live an enjoyable life by learning about the condition and effectively managing it.

When someone has diabetes, their body can’t maintain healthy levels of glucose in the blood.

Glucose is a form of sugar; the main source of energy for our bodies. Our bodies need to convert glucose from food into energy. The hormone, insulin is essential to do this.

In people with diabetes, insulin is not produced in sufficient amounts. When people with diabetes eat foods containing glucose, the glucose can’t be converted into energy and stays in the blood, resulting in high blood glucose levels. Blood glucose levels can be monitored and managed.

The three main types of diabetes are type 1, type 2 and gestational diabetes. All types are complex and require daily care and management. Anyone can develop diabetes.

Symptoms: thirstier than usual, passing more urine, feeling tired, always hungry, slow healing cuts, itching/skin infections, blurred vision, unexplained weight loss, gradual weight-gain, mood swings, headaches, dizziness and leg cramps.

Potential diabetic complications: heart attack, stroke, kidney disease, limb amputation, depression / anxiety and blindness. Early diagnosis, treatment, ongoing support and management reduce the risk of diabetes-related complications.

If you have any concerns it is important to seek medical advice from your GP.

Central Clinic – 170 Normanby Street, Warragul. 5622 3377.