Diabetic Home Care and Monitoring (cont.)
What is the
treatment for diabetes?
Diabetes is managed with a combination of
exercise,
diet
and medication. The goal of therapy is to control blood glucose
levels in order to prevent the immediate signs and symptoms
of high blood glucose levels, as well as prevent the long–term complications of diabetes. The appropriate treatment for an individual depends on the type of diabetes and its severity. Type 1 diabetes mellitus is treated with insulin, exercise, and a diabetic diet. Type 2 diabetes mellitus is first treated with
weight reduction, a diabetic diet,
and exercise. When these measures fail to control the elevated blood sugars,
oral medications are used. If oral medications are still insufficient,
insulin medications are considered.
Exercise therapy
Regular aerobic exercise improves blood circulation and lowers blood glucose levels.
Exercise also strengthens the heart and helps maintain an ideal body weight. The
chosen aerobic exercise should use large muscle
groups. Running, walking,
biking, and swimming are
excellent activities for most people. The frequency, type,
and duration of exercise depend on the individual's age,
treatment goals, and physical ability. An exercise program
should be designed with the help of a healthcare provider.
Exercise increases or decreases blood glucose levels
depending on the concentration of glucose and insulin in
the blood at the time of the exercise. If blood glucose is
low or normal, exercise may cause hypoglycemia (low blood
glucose) due to the utilization of glucose by the active
muscles. On the other hand, exercise may cause
hyperglycemia (high blood glucose)
if there isn't enough insulin to allow the active muscles to utilize blood
glucose. As a result, the muscles signal the body to produce more glucose, and
the glucose accumulates in the blood. Therefore, food intake and insulin doses should be
adjusted based on the intensity and duration of the
anticipated exercise.
Next: Diet therapy (diabetic diet) »
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