Are You at Risk to Develop Diabetes?

There are two major types of diabetes, Type 1 and Type 2. Answer the questions below to find out if you are at risk for developing this disease.

Do I have risk factors for Type 1 diabetes?

• Does a parent or sibling have Type 1 diabetes?

Do I have risk factors for Type 2 diabetes?

• Am I over age 45?
• Does anyone in my family have Type 2 diabetes?
• Am I overweight?
• Do I get regular exercise?
• Is my HDL cholesterol level too low?
• Are my blood triglycerides too high?
• Am I African American, Hispanic, Native American, Asian or a Pacific Islander?
• Did I have gestational diabetes with a pregnancy or give birth to a baby weighing more than nine pounds?

These factors all increase your risk of diabetes. Learn the warning signs and symptoms, and contact your doctor if you feel you are at risk for diabetes.

Diabetes Isn’t a Death Sentence

A diagnosis of diabetes is frightening. Is the doctor sure? What will happen? Will my life ever be normal again? Will I die sooner with diabetes?

Experts say the diagnosis of a chronic disease such as diabetes can cause you to go through the typical stages of mourning: denial, anger, depression and acceptance.

• Denial is often reinforced during the “honeymoon” phase - a common phenomenon in Type 1 diabetes in which, shortly after diagnosis, the body seems to “get better” for a period of time and requires little or no insulin. This phase can last a few weeks or a few months. The need for insulin sometimes increases after this period.
• The “This isn’t fair” period usually follows. During this time, you can suffer feelings of envy or anger. An innocent offer of a piece of cake can make you seethe.
• Depression is common with all chronic conditions, but with diabetes, depression can cause you to lose interest in yourself and your surroundings, making it likely you’ll have poor control over your blood sugar.
• People often float in and out of the different stages before finally accepting their condition.

Acceptance may be a long time coming but can bring about positive changes. You may end up with a deeper understanding of yourself and a greater appreciation of life.

Being newly diagnosed with diabetes is a scary time. It’s important that you look to your family, friends or clergy for understanding and encouragement.

MEDICINES FOR PEOPLE WITH DIABETES

Related Articles

TrackBack

TrackBack URL for this entry:
http://blog.healthra.com/diabetes/risk-to-develop-diabetes.htm/trackback
Listed below are links to weblogs that reference "Are You at Risk to Develop Diabetes?".