Christina Hamilton
RGN/RCN/RNP Education and Support Co-ordinator for Diabetes Ireland
Living with diabetes is about more than controlling blood glucose. It can affect your kidneys, heart, eyes and nerves before you notice any symptoms, so it’s essential to act early.
Regular check-ups with your GP or diabetes team can identify areas of concern before they become serious. Keeping your blood glucose, blood pressure, cholesterol and HbA1c, which shows your average blood glucose over time, within the targets your doctor sets can lower your risk of complications.
Protect your kidneys
Chronic kidney disease can be common for people living with diabetes and often shows no early symptoms. Simple urine and blood tests can detect early signs of kidney disease.
High blood glucose and high blood pressure can strain the kidneys and cause protein to appear in the urine. About one in five people with diabetes may need treatment for kidney disease. Early treatment with medication can slow progression and protect kidney function.
Look after your heart
Diabetes can increase heart failure risk, meaning the heart cannot pump blood as well as it should. Early signs can include breathlessness, swelling in the ankles, feeling tired or needing extra pillows at night.
Simple blood tests can help find problems early. Eating well, staying active and keeping blood pressure, cholesterol and glucose levels within the targets set by your doctor can reduce your risk.
Ask questions, know your test results and act early.
Check your eyes and nerves
Diabetes can affect your eyes and nerves without causing symptoms. Annual eye screening through the HSE protects vision and allows treatment early.
High blood glucose can also affect nerve endings, particularly in our extremities, causing tingling, numbness, digestive problems or changes in sexual health. Screening is important even if you don’t notice any symptoms.
Eat a balanced diet, stay active, maintain a healthy weight, avoid smoking and attend regular check-ups. Ask questions, know your test results and act early. Christina Hamilton from Diabetes Ireland says, “Understanding how diabetes affects your body and working with your healthcare team gives you the best chance of preventing serious problems.”
Being informed and proactive is the first step to living a healthier and fuller life with diabetes.
The ‘Be the Informed Type’ campaign, run by AstraZeneca Ireland and supported by Diabetes Ireland, encourages people with diabetes to stay proactive. You can find more information at www.diabetes.ie
