Diabetes Management
Diabetes is a disease in which your body either can’t produce insulin or can’t properly use the insulin it produces. Insulin is a hormone produced by your pancreas. The role of insulin is to regulate the amount of glucose (sugar) in the blood. Your body also needs insulin to use sugar for energy.
Health complications of diabetes include heart disease, chronic kidney disease, nerve damage, and other problems with feet, oral health, vision, hearing, and mental health.
Our pharmacists can be super helpful in managing your diabetes as they will encourage early screening and can be a wealth of knowledge for new ways to improve your diabetes management. Other ways our pharmacists can help include:
- Advice on lifestyle changes
- Discuss changes in medication
- Recommend helpful resources
Managing your blood sugar levels is an essential part of managing diabetes. Many things can influence blood sugar levels, so it’s important to learn about different types of food, how they affect you when combined, and managing the calories you eat. Having a regular meal plan can help you stay on top of your diet and will help you quickly pinpoint what could have contributed to any changes in your blood sugar levels. Don’t forget to include snacks in your meal plan to help find an alternative to sugary snacks, but still beat those cravings.
Our pharmacists can help review your meal plan, ensuring that everything you’ve included will benefit your diabetes management. They will also discuss any changes in calories or carbohydrates you’ve included.
Physical activity is another important part of your diabetes management plan. Regular exercise helps your body use insulin more effectively, and your muscles will use glucose or other sugars to gain energy. Both combined help to lower your blood sugar levels. The more intense the workout, the longer lasting the effect.
It’s important to talk to your pharmacist about your level of activity and type of exercise. You should be monitoring your blood sugar levels before, during, and after a workout, to avoid low blood sugar. Our pharmacists can help with your dosage and advise which exercises will benefit you.
Whenever necessary, a referral to see a physician, a diabetes educator, a dietitian, a podiatrist, or an optometrist, would be recommended.
Hypoglycemia is a low blood sugar typically less than 4mmol/L. Symptoms of hypoglycemia include trembling, sweating, palpitations, anxiety, tingling, hunger, nausea, difficulty concentrating, difficulty speaking, vision changes, weakness, drowsiness, confusion, dizziness, and headache. People taking anti-diabetic medications, particularly insulins and insulin secretagogues, are at a higher risk of experiencing hypoglycemia.
PHARMACIST’S TIP
A mild to moderate hypoglycemia can be treated by taking any of the following:
- 6 Life Savers™ (1 = 2.5 g of carbohydrate)
- 15 mL (1 tablespoon) of honey
- 15 g of glucose in the form of glucose tablets
- 5 cubes of sugar
- 150 mL of juice or regular soft drink
Severe hypoglycemia is an emergency, and it is typically treated with glucagon injection in those who have passed out or cannot take some form of sugar orally.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Diabetes Management
Q. What is diabetes management?
A. Diabetes management refers to the process of controlling blood sugar levels through a combination of medication, diet, exercise, and regular blood sugar monitoring. It aims to minimize complications and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Q. How can diet impact diabetes management?
A. A balanced diet is crucial for individuals with diabetes. Consuming foods that are low in refined sugars and high in fiber, such as whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, can help stabilize blood sugar levels and promote overall health.
Q. What role does exercise play in managing diabetes?
A. Regular physical activity aids in lowering blood sugar levels and improving insulin sensitivity. It also helps reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases, which are common among individuals with diabetes.
Q. Are there medications specifically for diabetes management?
A. Yes, there are several types of medications available for diabetes management, including insulin and oral hypoglycemics. A healthcare professional can determine the most suitable option based on the individual’s needs.
Q. How often should individuals monitor their blood sugar levels?
A. The frequency of blood sugar monitoring can vary based on the type of diabetes and treatment plan. Generally, it is recommended to check levels multiple times a day, especially for those using insulin.
Q. What are some common complications of unmanaged diabetes?
A. Unmanaged diabetes can lead to several complications, including cardiovascular diseases, neuropathy, nephropathy, and retinopathy. Early detection and management are crucial to preventing these issues.
Q. How important is patient education in diabetes management?
A. Patient education is vital in diabetes management. Understanding the condition, treatment options, and lifestyle changes empowers individuals to take charge of their health and make informed decisions.
Q. How can individuals with diabetes stay motivated in managing their condition?
A. Staying motivated can be achieved through setting realistic goals, celebrating small successes, and joining support groups where individuals can share experiences and strategies.
Q. What resources are available for diabetes management?
A. Various resources are available for diabetes management, including educational websites, community support groups, cooking classes, and consultations with healthcare providers.
Q. Why should I work with a pharmacist for my diabetes care?
A. Pharmacists in Canada are highly accessible health care professionals trained to support diabetes care. They can help explain your medications, ensure they are effective and safe, identify interactions, and help you understand your blood glucose levels and overall treatment plan. Pharmacist involvement has been shown to improve health outcomes in people with diabetes.
Q. Who can benefit from a diabetes management service?
Anyone living with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes, those with prediabetes, or individuals who want to understand and manage their blood glucose levels more effectively can benefit from this service. If you’re on medications for diabetes or are concerned about your blood sugar levels, this service is for you.
Q. What happens during a diabetes management appointment?
A. During your visit, the pharmacist will:
- Review your blood glucose readings
- Assess your medications and how you take them
- Discuss diet, physical activity, and lifestyle
- Answer questions about diabetes medications
- Provide support and follow-up plans to help you stay on target with your diabetes goals
Q. Can pharmacists adjust my diabetes medications?
A. Yes — depending on provincial scope of practice rules, pharmacists may be able to adjust or renew prescriptions, recommend changes, and work collaboratively with your doctor or nurse practitioner to optimize your treatment plan. Many Canadian provinces allow pharmacists to renew or adapt prescriptions to support continuity of care.
Q. How do lifestyle changes factor into diabetes management?
A. Lifestyle plays a key role in managing diabetes. Pharmacists can help you understand how diet, physical activity, weight management, and daily habits affect your blood sugar levels and provide practical advice that fits your life.
Q. How often should I follow up on diabetes management?
A. Your pharmacist will recommend a follow-up schedule based on your individual needs. People with poorly controlled blood sugar may need frequent visits, while others can be seen periodically to monitor progress. Regular follow-ups help maintain control and adjust your plan as needed.
In conclusion, diabetes management is a multifaceted approach that requires individuals to take an active role in their health. By understanding the impact of diet, exercise, medication, and education, individuals can effectively manage their diabetes and enhance their quality of life.