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Your Guide to Diabetes Lab Tests and Physical Exams

 

If you have diabetes, you are not alone. It is estimated that 21 million people in the United States have diabetes -- 90-95% of these people have type 2 diabetes. The good news is that diabetes is very treatable. Despite your diabetes, you can lead a normal, productive life if you stay in good control and see your doctor regularly. In this Health Alert, Johns Hopkins provides a checklist of tests for people with diabetes. >>More

 

Diabetes Is Common In Seniors

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Senior Diabetes

 

Many articles and web sites begin discussion of diabetes in older adults with a scolding. The message seems to be that we become diabetic because we are over weight and under exercised.

 

Still, there is excellent information in some of these web sites and articles so please keep reading.

 

The National Institute on Ageing has a very good article on senior diabetes and what goes on in the diabetic body. >>More

Type 1 and Type 2

 

There are two types of Diabetes known as Type 1 and Type 2. They have very different characteristics.

 

Type 2 Diabetes is most commonly found in older adults. It usually shows up after age 55 and often has few symptoms. It is often treatable with medication taken by mouth and with diet management. Type 2 Diabetes can be prevented. >>More

 

The American Diabetic Association provides lots of information about both types of diabetes, but specifically about Type 2, they say,

 

"Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes. In type 2 diabetes, either the body does not produce enough insulin or the cells ignore the insulin. Insulin is necessary for the body to be able to use glucose for energy. When you eat food, the body breaks down all of the sugars and starches into glucose, which is the basic fuel for the cells in the body. Insulin takes the sugar from the blood into the cells. When glucose builds up in the blood instead of going into cells, it can cause two problems:

 

* Right away, your cells may be starved for energy.

 

* Over time, high blood glucose levels may hurt your eyes, kidneys, nerves or heart.

 

Finding out you have diabetes is scary. But don't panic. Type 2 diabetes is serious, but people with diabetes can live long, healthy, happy lives." >>More

Type 1 Is Not Preventable

 

Type 1 Diabetes usually begins in children or young adults and has severe symptoms. Diet management is required and medication is taken by injection. Type 1 Diabetes can NOT be prevented. >>More

Both Type 1 and Type 2 Have Similar Long Term Effects

 

The long term effect of both types of Diabetes is circulatory impairment. This impacts the body's ability to heal itself, can cause vision loss, sexual dysfunction, and damage to various organs.

Medicine and Therapies for Diabetes

 

There are several medications available in pill form for Type 2 Diabetes. >>More

 

In addition to pills, it is important to manage your body with both diet and exercise. >>More

 

There are excellent exercises for older adults including exercises sitting down. It's possible to build strength and cardiovascular fitness while using a wheelchair. >>More