Health Center - Diabetes
About eight percent of all Americans have diabetes, and the rate is increasing. Learn more about this prevalent and life-threatening disease, including common symptoms, how it affects your health, tips to manage it and prevent complications and ways to reduce your risk factors.
Diabetes Guide
Diabetes Lifestyle Tips
Check your health insurance to know exactly what it covers. Be sure to comparison-shop when buying supplies. Blood glucose meters may be available for free if you buy 100 test strips, but pay attention to quality and meter features. Buy only the amount of test strips you can use before they expire. Don't split your test strips or reuse lancets. You can reuse syringes, although after about five uses the needle begins to get dull. Instead of alcohol wipes, use soap and water to clean your hands or the skin at the injection site.
More cost-cutting tips for managing diabetes
Instead of expensive, packaged "dietetic" foods, shop for healthy basic foods. Begin collecting free make-ahead or no-time healthy recipes from diabetes associations and other sources. Clip coupons and look for weekly specials. If you're given a brand prescription, ask if a generic would work and if free samples are available. Ask your pharmacy about discounts and rebates. Check out free offers from diabetes associations and manufacturers of diabetes drugs or equipment. Know the insurance laws in your state or learn more about Medicare coverage. If necessary, find out if you qualify for state or drug manufacturer patient assistance programs.
If you are sick
Your blood sugar will often be higher than usual when you are sick so continue to take your usual medication, including injections. The only exception is if your health care professional advises you to change it. Check blood glucose every three to four hours around the clock. Write these results down so you can communicate them over the phone if necessary. It is important to keep hydrated. Drink fluids that are sugar-free, but if you can't eat, alternate them with fluids containing sugar, such as juice or regular soda. Rest and call your health care professional if you are vomiting or have diarrhea, excessively high blood sugars or ketones or if you have any questions or concerns. Putting together a sick day kit ahead of time can help prepare you for emergencies.
Organizers you can use
