Looking after yourself

Diabetes is a progressive condition so people who have it need to consider certain aspects of self-care more than people who don't.  By taking good care of yourself you can limit or avoid the long-term complications associated with diabetes.

When you have diabetes you need to:

• Monitor your blood glucose and keep it within the range recommended by your doctor or nurse
• Eat healthily to control your blood glucose, blood pressure and cholesterol levels
• Exercise to improve your blood glucose control, lose weight and feel better
• Stop smoking - or don't start!
• Pay special attention to the care of your feet .

Having diabetes will also affect other aspects of your life, such as:

• When you have a sick day you need to take extra care of your diabetes
• If you are planning a pregnancy you will need to consider and plan your diabetes care during it in consultation with your doctor or nurse
• If you are travelling or going on holiday you will need to make sure you have supplies of medication and the necessary documentation for airport officials with you
• If you drive a car you will need to inform the relevant authorities about your diabetes.

Hypoglycaemia

Hypoglycaemia is the medical term for low blood glucose. It occurs when blood glucose levels fall below 4.0 mmol/L.  It can also be known as a 'hypo'.  If you have diabetes it is very important for you and your friends and family to know what to do in case you have a 'hypo'.

_{Back to top
IC09010}