What to Know If You’re Newly Diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes?
Type 2 diabetes can be a scary diagnosis. But it’s also an opportunity to make changes that will improve your health and your life.
A lot can go wrong if you don’t keep track of your blood sugar. It can lead to complications, such as heart disease, kidney failure, and even stroke. So, it is important to get all the information about type 2 diabetes.
Your doctor can help you start a program to manage your diabetes. They may also prescribe medication, such as insulin, or recommend changing your diet and exercise habits.
You’ll want to keep up with your doctor’s visits. They’ll help you monitor your blood glucose levels and check your progress.
If you’re worried about your diabetes, you can attend a diabetes support group. You can join one online or in person. The support group will provide a safe place for you to talk to other people.
If you are newly diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, here are some things you need to know for better control and management.
What Is Type 2 Diabetes?
Type 2 diabetes is a chronic illness that affects the way the body uses sugar. It is a type of diabetes in which your body either resists or doesn’t produce enough insulin.
The symptoms of type 2 diabetes can be mild or severe. Symptoms include increased urination, fatigue, thirst, blurry vision, and excessive hunger. However, if you have a family history of diabetes, you might be at a higher risk of developing the disease.
If you experience any symptoms, you should visit your doctor. There are several different tests for diagnosis, i.e., the A1C test, fasting blood sugar test, etc. If your blood sugar level is 6.5% or higher, it means you have diabetes.
Treatment options for type 2 diabetes include healthy eating, regular exercise, weight loss, blood sugar monitoring, medication, and insulin therapy.
Common Signs and Symptoms of Type 2 Diabetes
Type 2 diabetes is a progressive disease. Over time, the beta cells in your body lose their ability to produce and use insulin. As a result, your blood glucose level becomes too high.
In this condition, your body is not able to process sugar in an effective way. As the glucose in your body is not converted into energy, the amount of sugar in the blood increases.
While there are no cures for diabetes, you can learn to manage it through exercise and a diet that is diabetic-friendly.
Here are some common symptoms of type 2 diabetes.
- Increased thirst
- Frequent urination
- Unintended weight loss
- Fatigue
- Increased hunger
- Blurred vision
- Slow-healing sores
- Numbness or tingling in the hands or feet
- Frequent infections
- Areas of darkened skin
If you suspect you have diabetes, you should consult your doctor. He or she can arrange a test. Moreover, the type of testing depends on the symptoms you are experiencing.
How to Control Type 2 Diabetes?
If you have been newly diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes, it can be quite difficult to understand the treatment options. While there is no cure for it, you can control it with a few proven techniques. Here are some of them:
Dietary Changes
The role of nutrition in the treatment of type 2 diabetes is an important part of the diabetes management plan. Dietary changes can reduce blood sugar, help control weight, and reduce the risk of chronic complications. Proper nutrition therapy depends on the type of diabetes and the medications being used. A doctor or a dietitian can provide dietary and lifestyle guidance. Studies have also shown that diets rich in whole grains, fruits, and vegetables are beneficial for people with type 2 diabetes.
Physical Exercise
Physical exercise has been promoted as a treatment for type 2 diabetes. It is a highly effective means of combating the disease. Exercise is beneficial, as it improves insulin sensitivity. It also reduces inflammation. The resulting reduction in inflammation has the potential to mitigate the negative effects of the disease. For most individuals, the goal is to participate in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week.
Medication and Insulin Therapy
If you have type 2 diabetes, you may need to use medication to control your blood sugar levels. These medications work by increasing the body’s sensitivity to insulin. They also help the pancreas produce more insulin. Some of the main types of medications used for type 2 diabetes include metformin, acarbose, glitazones, liraglutide, empagliflozin, and dapagliflozin. Apart from these medicines, a doctor may also prescribe insulin therapy for controlling blood glucose levels.
Blood Sugar Testing
Blood sugar testing for type 2 diabetes can be an important part of your medical care. Your doctor may recommend you check your blood sugar several times a day, depending on your treatment plan. The results of your testing can help your doctor make adjustments to your diet and medications. Having an accurate diagnosis is a big step toward controlling your diabetes. A glucose meter is also the best way to check your blood sugar. Moreover, it can be used at home or at your doctor’s office.
Weight Loss
Managing weight is crucial for those with diabetes. It can also help you to decrease insulin resistance, improve your blood sugar, and reduce complications. Weight loss is a key therapeutic goal in type 2 diabetes. Moreover, the best way to lose weight is by controlling your diet and keeping yourself active.
Using an App for Type 2 Diabetes Management
If you have type 2 diabetes, you need an app to help you monitor your blood glucose levels. Moreover, this will help you manage your condition and reduce your risk of developing other chronic conditions.
There are many apps on the market. However, it’s important to choose one that works best for you. Klinio is also one of the best apps for diabetes and weight loss management.
This app comes with a detailed progress tracker and meal plans to help you lose weight and keep your blood sugar under control. You will also get educational content in the app. The Klinio app is available for both iOS and Android devices. You can also download it for free. Although you have to pay for a subscription to use it, there are many pros. All of them are laid out in this Klinio review.
Conclusion
Living with type 2 diabetes may seem like a nightmare in the beginning. However, there are certain things you can do to keep your blood sugar levels in control. By following a proper diet and exercise routine, you can significantly improve your quality of life. The most important thing to remember when managing your diabetes is to be consistent. Moreover, you should never skip an appointment. A regular check-up allows your physician to monitor your blood sugar levels and formulate a strategic management plan.
