Living with diabetes requires you to make changes in your life. By working with a primary care provider and asking the right questions, you empower yourself to take control of your health. You are not only gathering valuable information but also becoming an active participant in your healthcare.
Whether you’ve just been diagnosed or have been managing diabetes for years, clear communication with your provider is key. Here are five important questions to ask your provider to help you understand and manage your diabetes better.
1. What Type of Diabetes Do I Have, and What Does It Mean?
Diabetes comes in different forms, primarily Type 1 and Type 2, and knowing which one you have is crucial to managing your health.
- Type 1 diabetes occurs when the body produces little to no insulin, requiring lifelong insulin therapy.
- Type 2 diabetes happens when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin, and the cells are resistant to insulin. It is often managed with lifestyle changes, medications, or insulin.
According to the CDC, more than 38 Americans have type 2 diabetes, making it more common than type 1 diabetes. Symptoms of type 2 diabetes include:
- Excessive thirst
- Frequent need to urinate
- Increased hunger
- Unexplained weight loss
- Persistent fatigue
- Blurry vision
- Slow healing of cuts or sores
- Frequent infections
- Numbness or tingling in the hands or feet
Knowing the type of diabetes you have helps you understand your treatment options and what steps you need to take to manage it. Ask your primary care practitioner how your condition affects your body and what specific steps you should follow to stay healthy.
#2 How Should I Monitor My Blood Sugar Levels?
Monitoring your blood sugar levels is essential for managing diabetes, but it can be confusing if you’re unsure how to do it properly. Ask your primary care provider:
- How often should I check my blood sugar?
- What should be my target blood sugar range?
- What should I do if my blood sugar is too high or too low?
Your provider can guide you on how to use a glucose meter, continuous glucose monitor (CGM), or other devices, and how to track your readings. Consistent monitoring can prevent complications and help you adjust your treatment plan as needed.
It’s important to recognize warning signs of irregular blood sugar levels. Symptoms like excessive thirst, frequent urination, blurred vision, and unexplained fatigue may indicate issues with your blood sugar.
#3 What Medications or Insulin Will I Need, and How Do They Work?
Understanding your medications is vital to managing diabetes effectively. Discuss the following with your primary care practitioner:
- What medications or insulin are prescribed to me?
- How do these medications work in controlling my blood sugar?
- Are there any negative side effects of the medication?
Knowing how your medication works allows you to take it properly and recognize any issues early on. If you experience side effects or your blood sugar levels aren’t well-managed, your provider can adjust your treatment plan accordingly.
#4 Which Foods Should I Avoid or Include in My Diet?
Eating the right foods is essential for managing type 2 diabetes. The food you eat directly affects your blood sugar levels, so making smart choices can help you stay healthy. Your primary care provider or dietitian can give you advice on what to eat and what to avoid to keep your blood sugar stable.
Here’s what you need to know about a healthy meal plan for type 2 diabetes:
- Focus on healthy carbohydrates: Choose whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and legumes like beans and peas. These foods provide energy and nutrients without causing big spikes in blood sugar.
- Incorporate lean proteins: Lean meats, fish, eggs, and plant-based proteins like tofu or beans help keep you full and maintain stable blood sugar levels.
- Eat high-fiber foods: Foods high in fiber, from vegetables to fruits and complex carbohydrates, slow digestion and help control blood sugar levels.
- Limit unhealthy fats: Try to reduce saturated and trans fats found in fried foods and processed snacks, which can negatively affect blood sugar and heart health.
- Avoid sugary drinks and processed foods: Sugary beverages and highly processed snacks can cause blood sugar spikes, so it’s best to limit or avoid them.
#5 What Lifestyle Changes Can I Make to Better Manage My Diabetes?
Making certain lifestyle changes can significantly help you manage type 2 diabetes and improve your overall health. Your healthcare provider may recommend the following changes:
- Exercise regularly: Physical activity improves how your body uses insulin and helps with weight management. Even 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week can be beneficial.
- Manage stress: High stress levels can cause blood sugar spikes. Try to manage your stress levels by practicing self-care, meditation, and yoga.
- Prioritize sleep: Getting enough quality sleep supports your overall health and helps regulate blood sugar levels. Most adults need at least seven hours of sleep every night.
- Eat balanced meals: Incorporate more whole grains, lean proteins, and fiber-rich foods into your diet while avoiding processed foods and sugary drinks.
Working with your primary care practitioner helps you make the necessary changes in your lifestyle. Advocating for yourself and having a provider advocate for your health also makes it easier to maintain these changes in the long term.
Primary Care Provider Near Me in Oviedo, FL
Dr. Adriel Perez, DNP, APRN, Family Nurse Practitioner at Diabetes & Weight Loss Center advocates for your health and well-being. Dr. Perez focuses on helping individuals with diabetes and weight loss and is committed to making a big difference in your life.
Dr. Perez and our team care deeply about our patients. We advocate for you and empower you to have a successful health outcome. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Perez, call us today at (407) 890-1876 or use our appointment request form. We look forward to being part of your healthcare team!
