To the Editor,
November is National Diabetes Month. The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disease is asking us to "Take Charge of Tomorrow." It is vitally important that we start now to prevent Diabetes health problems in the future.
Diabetes is a disease that occurs when your blood sugar is too high. If it is not managed, diabetes can damage the eyes, kidneys, nerves, heart and is also linked to some types of cancers.
Here are some tips to help you manage diabetes to stay healthy longer.
1. Manage your A1C blood glucose, blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Ask your doctor what your goals should be and stay informed.
2. Take care of your mental health - a mental health counselor can help you find healthy ways to cope with stress.
3. Make lifestyle changes to slowly build healthy habits - take small steps to eat healthier, be more physically active and get enough sleep.
4. Take your medicines on time, even if you feel healthy - talk to your health care provider or pharmacist for help if you have trouble managing your medicines.
5. WORK CLOSELY WITH YOUR PRIMARY CARE PROVIDER.
West Virginia residents remain near the top of the heap in having diabetes and its complications - let's turn this around!!
Bernice Pitcock
Weirton Lions Club