It’s national diabetes month! Here’s how you can raise awareness…
It’s national diabetes month! Join Amaré Health as we raise awareness for the chronic condition that impacts around 4.9 million people in the UK. Today, we share insight into the core symptoms to look out for, as well as how you can get involved and show your support for the diabetic community this November.
What’s the difference between type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes?
Type 1 is when your body cannot produce enough insulin (if any at all) to keep glucose levels within a safe range (4 to 7 mmol/L). It is still unknown what causes the condition, but it is important to note that it is unrelated to lifestyle or dietary choices. Type 1 diabetes is a chronic condition which is managed by taking insulin either via injection or pump on a daily basis. Unfortunately, there is still no cure as of yet but significant progress is being made in the world of medicine and research.
Type 2 occurs when cells don’t respond properly to the insulin being released. Risk factors include being overweight, aged over 65, having type 2 diabetes in your family and leading an inactive lifestyle. Unlike type 1 diabetes, not everyone who is diagnosed with type 2 requires insulin therapy. Upon diagnosis you will most likely be offered Metformin, tablets which help regulate your sugar levels. In the event this treatment doesn’t work then insulin injections may be recommended by your doctor.
How is blood sugar monitored?
Before very recently, diabetics could only check their glucose level using a blood test in the form of a finger prick and an electronic metre. However, thanks to the miracle that is modern technology, blood sugar levels can be monitored using a small sensor which you attach to your skin and scan with your phone at any time. Amazing, eh?! This impressive piece of kit is also known as a continuous glucose monitor.
What are the main symptoms of diabetes?
- Unexplainable weight loss
- Unquenchable thirst
- Frequent urination
- Increased appetite – even when you are eating normally
- Fatigue
- Slow healing after cuts or grazes
- Blurred eyesight
- Feeling irritable
- Recurrent infections, such as thrush
If you think you may have diabetes, it is crucial to see your local GP as soon as possible to prevent any further damage to your body.
How can I get involved with diabetes awareness month?
There are many ways to show your support for those with diabetes, including:
- Talking to your diabetic friends, family and colleagues about their condition and making it clear that you are there for a chat/support whenever they may need it.
- Using the hashtag #DiabetesAwarenessMonth or #DAM2022 across your social media platforms to spread the word.
- Wear blue to show your support.
- Educate people! There are a lot of misconceptions around diabetes, including the famous myth that it is caused by eating too much sugar. These ideologies can be really damaging to those with the condition so it is really important to call out false information when you hear it.
- Donate to Diabetes UK.
Here at Amaré Health, we stand in solidarity with the diabetic community and encourage everyone to get involved with raising awareness this November (100 years since the first insulin injection was administered!).
Want to chat? Get in touch with our dedicated team via email at [email protected].