Gaining and Keeping Control
Keeping your blood sugar in the healthy range will require a lot of work and changes. It may mean dropping old habits and picking up new ones. And it may even seem overwhelming at times. But with knowledge, support of others and a realistic outlook, you can put diabetes in its place.
To control your diabetes you’ll need to understand and balance the following:
Your first step is to join up with a personal health care team. Your team may include your doctor, nurse, diabetes educator, pharmacist, dietitian, eye doctor, dentist and other specialists. As "team leader," your role is to be honest, ask questions, and keep your team informed about your diabetes and your concerns. With their care, knowledge and skill you will learn more about your diabetes and how to take control of it by balancing these five basic tools. A schedule of regular visits with your health care team will help you work toward your treatment goal.
Your team should also include the support of others around you, like your family and your friends. But remember – it’s up to you to educate them about your diabetes and keep them aware of your current condition, as well as your needs and feelings.