Know Your Diabetes ABCs
November is National Diabetes Month, which is a month dedicated to raise awareness on this illness that impacts tens of millions of people in the U.S. The theme for this year is prevention and prediabetes. Did you know that 1 in 3 people have prediabetes, many of whom are unaware that they have elevated blood glucose levels? Diabetes causes abnormally high blood glucose levels that can lead to damage in the heart, kidneys, eyes, skin, feet, and nerves.
Whether you have been diagnosed or not, it is important to know these diabetes ABCs:
A is for A1C
A1C is a test that measures your average blood glucose level from the previous 3 months. It can be used to diagnose prediabetes or diabetes. The result is represented as a percentage point, with higher numbers indicating higher glucose levels. Below 5.7% is a normal level, 5.7- 6.4 % is prediabetes, and anything over 6.5% is diabetes.
B is for blood pressure
People with diabetes are twice as likely to have high blood pressure, which increases the risk of complications including stroke, heart attack, heart disease, and kidney disease. These elevated risks of complications are why it’s important to keep an eye on your blood pressure. Consult with your doctor on how to maintain blood pressure levels below 120/80mm Hg.
C is for cholesterol
Cholesterol is a type of fat that is in your blood, which is categorized into LDL (“bad” cholesterol that can clog blood vessels), HDL (“good” cholesterol that can protect your heart), and triglycerides. Diabetes typically lowers the amount of LDL and triglycerides, thus increasing the chances of heart disease and strokes, so it is important to watch your cholesterol levels closely.
A team effort to manage diabetes
If you are diagnosed with prediabetes or diabetes, it will be important to not only be aware of these ABCs but also regularly see a team of health care providers to manage your condition and prevent complications. Since diabetes-related foot problems are especially common, including peripheral neuropathy and ulcers, it is important to schedule regular appointments with an experienced podiatrist to prevent these issues.
We provide high quality foot and ankle care
At Precision Foot and Ankle Centers, we help our diabetic patients manage and treat their foot and ankle problems using innovative technologies and years of experience. Whether you need a custom orthotic, need treatment for slow-healing wounds, or have heel pain, our team of board-certified podiatrists are here for you! Contact us for an appointment at any of our locations in Los Angeles, Torrance, and San Pedro today!