Treatment of type 2 diabetes serves two main purposes. In the short term, it may provide relief from the immediate symptoms of high blood sugar. In the long term, good control of sugar may prevent or delay complications of type 2 diabetes, such as heart disease, kidney disease, and blindness.
Type 2 diabetes may be treated with diet, exercise, and weight loss. This is particularly true for people who have been recently diagnosed. Many people also require oral medications or injected insulin to help control their blood sugar.
The treatment suggested by your doctor or healthcare professional will depend on several factors, including:
* how long you have had type 2 diabetes
* how high your blood glucose levels are
* your overall health
* other medication you may be taking
To help make your treatment work best for you, you will work closely with a team of healthcare professionals. This healthcare team typically consists of your doctor, a dietitian or nutritionist, and nurses, as well as a foot doctor (podiatrist) and eye doctor to check for signs of developing complications. Together, your healthcare team will develop a treatment plan that is right for you.
Along with the care provided by your healthcare team, you can make a difference in the success of your type 2 diabetes treatment plan. You should closely follow your healthcare team’s recommendations for diet, exercise, weight loss, and treatment.
Here are some important things you can do:
* Modify your diet and exercise regimens to carefully follow the recommendations outlined by your doctor or healthcare professional.
* If your doctor or healthcare professional has prescribed medication for your diabetes, always take it as instructed.
* You should monitor your blood sugar as prescribed by your doctor or healthcare professional to see how well you are managing your diabetes.
It is important for you to be an active participant in managing your type 2 diabetes.