Every November is American Diabetes Month, and this year “This Is Diabetes” is the theme. The goal is to raise awareness about this condition, and to educate and empower Americans to take measures to prevent diabetes, along with encouraging those with diabetes to be healthy and mindful of their condition. According to the American Diabetes Association, 1 in 11 Americans are diagnosed with this disease, and 86 million Americans are at risk for diabetes. Fighting this disease will save lives, and it is important that the public is educated on how to help themselves and others.
Types of Diabetes
The bulk of the population that has diabetes has Type 2, and is caused by the body being unable to produce or use insulin properly. Being overweight or being genetically predisposed often causes type 2 diabetes. Treatment involves controlling one’s blood sugar through a healthy diet and exercise, along with insulin or other medications. Additionally, Type 2 diabetes includes gestational diabetes, which occurs when a pregnant woman has high blood sugar.
Much less common is Type 1 diabetes, which is an autoimmune disease, unlike Type 2 diabetes. This condition is often diagnosed in children or teenagers, and happens when the body simply does not produce insulin. Unfortunately, it is currently not preventable, though people with Type 1 diabetes can manage it through daily insulin.
Diabetic Foot Care
Though some may not be aware of this, those with diabetes need to see a podiatrist on a regular basis. Here at Alpine Foot Specialists, we recommend diabetic patients to see us once every ten weeks for routine foot care and evaluation of any deformities. We also recommend that all patients perform their own daily foot evaluation, looking for any signs of infection, cuts, or bruises. If you do notice any of these things, contact our office right away for an appointment.
Courtesy of: American Diabetes Association