Diabetes

Diabetes is a chronic medical condition that occurs when your body loses its ability to regulate blood sugar (also called glucose) leading to elevated blood sugar levels and serious complications over time.

Blood sugar is your body’s main source of energy and comes from the food you eat. In type 1 diabetes, your body does not produce insulin, which helps lower blood sugar. In type 2 diabetes, your body does not produce enough insulin or becomes resistant to its effect.

Symptoms may include:

• Increased thirst and hunger
• Frequent urination
• Blurry vision
• Fatigue

Diabetes can cause complications such as:

• Heart disease
• Kidney disease
• Nerve damage, and vision loss

Managing your blood sugar levels and living a healthy lifestyle can help prevent or delay these complications.

This includes:

• Eating a healthy diet
• Exercising regularly
• Taking medication (if prescribed) as directed.
• Blood sugar levels should be monitored regularly to ensure they are within a healthy range
• Quit smoking
• Limit alcohol consumption

Upperline Plus providers can develop a diabetes management plan that works for you. They can also help you understand your medications, monitor your blood sugar levels, and provide additional resources and support including, dieticians, pharmacists, social workers, and mental health services.