In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, many patients living with diabetes and other pre-existing health conditions are being challenged with establishing a good balance between managing their health while simultaneously limiting their risk of exposure. And when you consider the recent rise in cases across Louisiana and the still very prevalent restrictions on our everyday lives, it becomes even more difficult to navigate. That’s why we’ve created a complete guide of tips for managing your diabetes from home.
Monitor Blood Sugar
Monitoring blood sugar levels is critical when it comes to at-home diabetes management. This is typically done using a finger prick test kit, and in some cases, a blood sugar monitor built into a patient’s insulin pump. It is essential that a patient keeps track of their blood sugar levels, as this can inform you how to better manage what you eat and when you should eat it. Depending on the patient, monitoring should be done at least once a day, but in some cases, up to several times a day. Talk to your doctor for recommendations on how often you should be checking your levels based on your individual condition.
Follow A Diet And Exercise Plan
Both diet and exercise are vital for managing your diabetes from home. Patients with diabetes are encouraged to plan out their meal schedules ahead of time in order to avoid impulse eating. This cuts down the potential of overeating so you can better manage your weight and your blood sugar. Undereating may also be an issue, especially in patients who take medications other than insulin. By developing a balanced meal and exercise plan, you will have a better chance at sticking to your goals. Sure, it can be difficult to stay disciplined in the first few weeks, but taking those steps to a healthier lifestyle can turn into a lifetime of healthy habits.
Schedule Your Insulin and Medication
Setting an alarm or a reminder notification to alert you when it’s time to take your insulin and medications is a simple way to help you stay on track. The human body prefers a steady routine, and if diabetes medications are not taken at the same time each day, complications may arise such as lower glucose control. To further help you manage your prescriptions, try using a pill box for all other medications besides insulin. It will help you stay organized and make it easily noticeable if you forget a dosage at any point in time.
Consult with Your Doctor
All of these practices in addition to regular consults with your doctor are crucial for successfully managing your diabetes from home.
Call SLMA today to schedule your telemedicine appointment, begin an at-home care plan, and walk toward a healthy lifestyle at home.
