| | Specific treatment for type 2 diabetes will be determined by your physician based on:Your age, overall health, and medical historyExtent of the diseaseYour tolerance for specific medications, procedures, or therapiesExpectations for the course of the diseaseYour opinion or preferenceThe goal of treatment is to keep blood sugar levels as close to normal as possible. Emphasis is on control of blood sugar (glucose) by monitoring the levels, regular physical activity, meal planning, and routine health care. Treatment of diabetes is an ongoing process of management and education that includes not only the person with diabetes, but also health care professionals and family members. Often, type
2 diabetes can be controlled through losing weight, improved nutrition, and exercise alone. However, in some cases, these measures are not enough and either oral or injected medications and/or insulin must be used. Treatment often includes: Healthy dietWeight controlAn appropriate exercise programRegular foot inspectionsOral medications, other medications, and/or insulin replacement therapy, as directed by your physician. Regular monitoring of the hemoglobin A1C levels. The hemoglobin A1C test (also called HbA1c test) shows the average amount of sugar in the blood over the last three months. Poorly managed diabetes can cause problems with the kidneys, legs, feet, eyes, heart, nerves, and blood flow, which could lead to kidney failure, gangrene, amputation, blindness, or stroke. For these reasons, it is important to follow a strict treatment plan. |
