What is diabetes?

It is a condition in which the amount of glucose (sugar) in the blood is too high because the body cannot use it properly.  Insulin, normally produced by the body to utilize sugars, is not  adequately helping the glucose to enter the cells where it is used for fuel.   The cause of diabetes continues to be a mystery, although both genetics and environmental factors such as obesity and lack of exercise appear to be related to the development of diabetes.

Early detection, treatment and continued control is very important as this will reduce  the chances of developing more serious health problems linked to diabetes:  nerve disease, kidney problems, heart-circulatory  disorders and blindness.  

Diabetes is diagnosed by a simple fasting blood sugar test.  

Normal fasting blood sugar—70-100

Pre-Diabetes—101-125

Diabetes > 125

DIABETES EDUCATION

Your local hospital has a program to help you learn how to stay healthy with diabetes.  The program is recognized and supported by the American Diabetes Association.  The educators are Mary Konen RN,  Certified Diabetes Educator, and Ellen Garden, Registered Dietitian.  This program emphasizes the following important components of your care:

· Blood glucose monitoring

· Meal planning

· Exercise Recommendation

· Eye care

· Foot care

· Medication information

· Blood pressure monitoring

· Lipids control

· Standards of Diabetes care

· Portion  control

 The goal of the outpatient program is to enable people with diabetes to maintain good health and enjoy a satisfying quality of life.

Classes are taught in a group setting and participants are encouraged to bring a support partner to each class.

The cost of the class is covered by Medicare and many other insurance providers.  If your insurance doesn’t cover the program, arrangements for payment may be made with the hospital.

We can help you:

· Gain knowledge to take control of your diabetes on a day to day basis. 

· Gain the confidence to become an active member of your health care team.