Living With Diabetes – What are the Possible Complications?

Published on: 28 October 2019 Last Updated on: 11 September 2024

Medical practitioners continue to search for newer treatments for diabetes, as several people around the world have this condition. As of 2015, 9.4 percent of the population of the United States have diabetes.

Most of them have complications affecting other organs.

Without proper care, diabetes can lead to damage to the kidneys, heart, blood vessels, nerves, eyes, and gastrointestinal tract.

There may be no better time than now to take charge of your health with the support of online diabetes medication.

Hospitals and healthcare organizations now offer diabetes CEUs for nurses. This learning system will help them stay up-to-date and provide better service for diabetic patients.

How Can You Prevent Diabetic Complications?

Keeping the patient’s blood sugar at a healthy level can reduce the possibility of complications. Here are some guidelines on how to prevent these complications.

Heart Disease

Heart disease is one of the complications a person with diabetes may experience. Doctors and nurses perform several tests to assess the patient’s heart, which helps them prevent future problems. Most of the time, doctors also test the patient’s cholesterol level and triglycerides. They also perform an EKG.

Diabetic patients can decrease the risk of heart disease through weight loss, regular exercise, healthy eating, stress management, and keeping blood pressure and cholesterol normal.

Kidney Disease

All patients should get their urine tested every year to determine if they have kidney disease due to diabetes. Doctors perform a creatinine blood test to check if the kidneys function well.

Nerve Damage

As time goes by, uncontrolled diabetes will lead to nerve damage. Patients will feel numbness or pain in their legs, feet, or hands. Their skin will also lose sensation. They may notice small wounds that will not heal or get bigger.

Check for possible damage by looking for redness, calluses, or cracks on the patient’s skin. You should inform the doctor immediately if you have seen any of these symptoms.

Taking Proper Care of Your Body as a Diabetic

A patient who cares for their body will feel better in the long run. Patients who keep their blood sugar close to normal will possibly:

have more energy

be less thirsty

heal wounds better

have fewer infections

Diabetic people who take good care of their bodies will also have a less chance of:

stroke or heart attack

kidney problems

teeth and gum problems

eye problems

nerve damage (pain, numbness, and tingling in both hands and feet)

Medical Assistance for Diabetic People

According to the American Diabetes Association, choosing a reliable healthcare team is necessary for people with diabetes. A patient should have a well-experienced doctor and nurse to ensure good health.

An endocrinologist has specialized training that can help people prevent possible diabetic problems.

A dietitian is also helpful for diabetic people, as diet is essential for recovery. Dietitians have the proper training to figure out the best diet for each person, considering their weight, lifestyle, health condition, and medication.

A registered nurse also plays a vital role in healthcare for diabetic people. These professionals undergo diabetes CEUs for nurses and have a special background in caring for people with diabetes.

With proper medications, diabetes can be treated and controlled. These nurses who have undergone continuing education courses for diabetic patients are trained to help mitigate the negative impact of this chronic disease.

How to not Let Diabetes Effect your Personal Life

Living with diabetes can be challenging, but it shouldn’t hold you back professionally. You should be able to reach your work goals without having to give them to diabetes.

There are ways you can win over it and keep going while taking care of yourself!

Yes, with some effort on your part, you can keep your health in check and still succeed at work.

Here are some ways to make sure diabetes doesn’t impact your professional life.

Put Your Health First at Work

First and foremost, you need to prioritize your health. This means regular monitoring of your blood sugar levels, even during busy workdays.

Make it a habit to check your levels before important meetings or tasks. Keeping healthy snacks at your desk can also help you manage sudden drops in blood sugar.

If you need to take breaks to manage your condition, don’t hesitate to communicate this to your employer.

Meal-plan-friendly office snack options include:

Fresh fruits (apples, bananas, oranges, etc.)
Nuts (almonds, cashews, etc.)
Greek yogurt
Small portions of carrot and celery sticks with hummus
Protein bars

Plan Your Meals Ahead

Planning your meals and snacks is crucial to help you manage your diabetes when you have a busy work schedule.

Make sure that you eat balanced meals that will keep your blood sugar levels steady during the day.

It’s also a good idea to bring along healthy snacks that are easy to eat on the go.

Foods that are high in fiber, lean protein, and healthy fats can help keep your energy level stable so that you can stay focused and get as much done as possible.

Keep Moving Throughout the Day

Participating in a physical activity doesn’t require going to the gym for lunch. Short office walks and desk exercises are examples of something small that can mean so much.

Physical activity is one of those things that helps keep your blood sugar better regulated and keeps you awake.

Still, it is better to ask your doctor about the physical exercises which are good for your body.

Then, set a timer on your phone or computer to help you remember to move every hour, especially if it’s an office job where you sit most of the day. All these little things add up.

Communication with Your Employer

There is no harm in having an open discussion with your employer about your health.

Tell them what you need to manage your diabetes at work- frequent breaks, a fridge or a cooler to store insulin, or a less stressful environment. Most employers will agree if it doesn’t affect your work.

Final Note!

Dealing with diabetes while managing work can be challenging, but it is possible.

Give priority to self-care, plan your meals in advance, stay active during the day and let your employer or colleagues know about your condition.

Continue to shine at work by not letting diabetes bog you down.

After all, if you are fit and fine from a health perspective, everything else falls into place smoothly.

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Journeying With The Dying: How Hospice Chaplains Facilitate End-Of-Life Spiritual Transitions

When individuals approach the twilight of their lives, they often confront a whirlwind of emotions—fear, regret, hope, acceptance, and more. This intense period termed the end-of-life phase, sees many grappling with existential questions and seeking answers to life's most profound mysteries. This search for clarity and solace is where the spiritual dimension of human existence comes to the forefront. Many turn to spirituality as a source of comfort, a beacon of hope, and a framework for making sense of their experiences. It's within this complex tapestry of emotions and spiritual quests that hospice chaplains, representing the realm of hospice chaplaincy, emerge as pivotal figures. These professionals dedicate themselves to guiding individuals through this intricate journey, helping them find spiritual serenity amidst the tumultuous currents of approaching mortality. The subsequent sections delve deeper into understanding the multifaceted role of these spiritual caregivers. The Integral Role of a Hospice Chaplain Defining the Role in Greater Detail: Hospice chaplains stand at the crossroads of spirituality and caregiving. They aren't just religious figures; they are trained professionals skilled in offering spiritual support tailored to the unique needs of each individual. Their role goes beyond mere ritualistic practices. They act as confidants, counselors, and guides, providing a listening ear, heartfelt advice, and spiritual interventions tailored to the individual's beliefs and wishes. Whether helping patients find peace with their life's journey, facilitating forgiveness and reconciliation, or simply being present during moments of deep reflection, hospice chaplains are there to ensure that the spiritual dimension of end-of-life care is addressed with the utmost sensitivity and respect. The Spectrum of Interfaith Approaches: One of the most remarkable aspects of hospice chaplaincy is its inclusiveness. 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By offering tailored spiritual interventions and an inclusive approach that honors diverse beliefs, they ensure that individuals and their families find the spiritual solace they seek during these poignant moments. Delving Deeper: Spiritual Needs, Interventions, and Family Impact in the End-of-Life Journey Spiritual Needs at the End of Life Seeking Meaning and Purpose: The imminence of death often prompts deep introspection. Many individuals reflect upon their life's journey, trying to discern its purpose. These reflections might encompass personal achievements, missed opportunities, unfulfilled dreams, and significant life events. In such times, spiritual guidance assists individuals in navigating these contemplations, helping them find peace with their life narrative, celebrating accomplishments, and making peace with regrets. Reconciliation: Estrangements and unresolved conflicts become especially poignant during the end-of-life phase. Many individuals desire to reconnect, apologize, or seek forgiveness from loved ones. The urge to mend relationships, settle old disputes, or express unspoken feelings becomes vital. The spiritual guide aids in facilitating these reconciliations, offering counsel, and, if necessary, acting as a mediator. Fear and Hope: The mystery of what comes after death is a source of both trepidation and anticipation. The fear of the unknown contrasts starkly with hopes or beliefs of an afterlife, reincarnation, or spiritual continuation. By addressing these concerns, chaplains help balance these emotions, emphasizing the transformative nature of death in various spiritual traditions. Cultural and Traditional Rites: Every culture and religion has rituals that honor the dying and the deceased. Whether it's a specific prayer, a song, a way, or even silence, these rites are paramount for the person passing and their family. Respecting and facilitating these practices is crucial to providing a sense of closure, continuity, and respect for the individual's spiritual and cultural identity. Interventions by Hospice Chaplains Active Listening: One of the most profound gifts a chaplain can offer is the gift of presence—simply being there, offering a listening ear. By actively listening, they provide a safe and non-judgmental space for individuals to voice their deepest feelings, concerns, and reflections, guided. Meditations and Prayers: Tailoring spiritual practices to individual needs, chaplains might guide patients through meditations or prayers that align with their beliefs. These sessions can instill a sense of calm, acceptance, and connection with the divine or the universe. Scripture Readings: For those who find solace in religious texts, chaplains can read passages that resonate with the patient's current emotions or questions. Scriptures, whether from the Bible, Quran, Torah, Bhagavad Gita, or other religious texts, can offer comfort, guidance, and a sense of continuity. Ritual Facilitation: Be it sacraments, candle lighting, or even non-religious rituals like listening to a specific song or watching a sunset, chaplains assist in organizing and facilitating these rites, ensuring the Grief Support: The dying process isn't just about the individual; it encompasses the family and loved ones. Chaplains extend their support to these grieving souls, offering a shoulder to lean on, words of comfort, and guidance through their emotional journey. The Impact on Families Emotional Anchoring: In the tumultuous sea of emotions, chaplains act as an anchor for families. Their calm presence and experience in navigating such situations provide a stabilizing effect, helping families cope more effectively. Guidance through Rituals: Families often seek direction in performing end-of-life rituals correctly and meaningfully. Chaplains offer insights, respect cultural nuances, and sometimes even take the lead in ensuring these rites are conducted reverently. After-death Support: The journey doesn't end with the passing of a loved one. Grief, memories, and the void left behind are real and profound. Chaplains continue to support families, providing bereavement counseling, helping them process their loss, and guiding them toward healing and acceptance. The spiritual dimensions of the end-of-life journey are intricate, deeply personal, and encompass more than just the dying individual. Hospice chaplains, with their nuanced understanding, play an instrumental role in ensuring that this journey, for both the individual and their families, is navigated with dignity, respect, and profound compassion. Continuous Education and Self-care Training: The importance of ongoing training for chaplains to stay updated on best practices and religious rites. Self-care Rituals: Chaplains must cultivate personal rituals or practices to manage their well-being. Peer Support: Engaging with fellow chaplains or professionals to discuss challenges and share experiences. Conclusion The journey towards the end of life is deeply personal, and the spiritual terrain can be complex. Hospice chaplains, with their expertise and compassion, play an indispensable role in facilitating spiritual transitions during this phase. Their ability to address the deep-seated spiritual needs of the dying and their families ensures that the end-of-life journey is one of meaning, reconciliation, and peace. Read Also: Navigating Healthcare: Exploring The Harvest Tech Achievers ETF Seven Stages To Creating A Patient-Friendly Healthcare App The Future Of Healthcare: Adapting To An Aging Society

5 Protein Enriched Food To Improve Mental Health

Want to improve your brain power? Fuel your brain, with enough protein to improve its performance. Here, I shall be discussing 5 food types that could help in improving your mental health. Read also: Top 5 Foods For Healthier And Thicker Hair Opting for Lean Protein The most important inclusion to the diet chart is food items that are rich sources of lean protein. Protein is probably one of the most abundant substances present in the body, next only to carbohydrate. The food that we consume is broken down to substances for creating neurotransmitters and different other chemicals. These chemicals and neurotransmitters help the nervous system and provide power to the brain for communicating in an effective manner. Tryptophan, a certain kind of amino acid influences the mood by the effective production of the neurotransmitter serotonin. Serotonin helps in fighting depression. Some of the common sources of lean protein are eggs, beans, chicken, turkey, and fish. Consuming these food items in suitable amount helps in keeping the serotonin level balanced. Complex carbs are also important to include in the diet. They help in facilitating the tryptophan entry into the brain. This helps in reducing the anxiety and depression, thus, improving cognitive functioning. Include Fish in the Diet Fish, especially the sea-based ones are high sources of protein and are low in terms of saturated fats. Sea-based fish like trout, anchovies, herring, salmon, prawn, sardines, and sablefish are also high sources of omega-3 fatty acid. Seafood or sea-based fish are an exclusive part of protein families and must be consumed at least twice in a week. Remember, the composition of our brain is largely based on fat. Our body is incapable of manufacturing those essential fatty acids in a large volume. Therefore, we must depend on diets that are rich in lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids that would help in our brainpower prowess. Omega-3 fatty acid also helps in boosting memory and developing the learning power of the brain. Read also: 9 Magical Benefits Of A Vegetarian Diet Soy and Tofu Soy and Tofu (Non-GMO based) are said to be excellent sources of lean protein with low-fat content. They could be the best alternative to red meat. Enjoy a meatless diet with soy and tofu to get essential protein, without affecting your health. Focusing on Dairy Products Certain dairy products like, yogurt, milk, and cheese are high sources of protein. However, they are not sources of lean protein. Rather, they are sources of healthy proteins, with fat content. Therefore, you must avoid flavored milk and low-fat yogurts due to their inclusion of added sugar. Also, it is advisable to avoid processed cheese because of the presence of non-dairy ingredients. Beans and Peas Finally, include beans and peas into the diet. Both these vegetables are said to be high sources of protein and fiber. Include them in the salads, stews, soups, and other vegetable dish preparation. It would not only help in boosting your protein intake but also help in preventing the chances of cancerous cell growth factor. Try to avoid processed carbs and replace them, with high-quality protein-based food into your diet. It would also prevent the chances of brain stroke and heart diseases while improving your mental agility and power. Read More: Healthy Protein Alternatives For Grandpa And Grandma Taste The Salmon Of Nutrition Interesting Facts About Celery And Deadheading Petunias

10 healthy habits to improve your health

Your health is the single greatest asset that you can ever possess. It can determine how successful you will be in business and whether you will live to achieve your lifetime resolutions or not. You should, therefore, never gamble with your health by failing to take due caution to lead a healthy lifestyle. As part of the good health practices that you should endeavor to keep in your life, being disciplined forms the foundation for ensuring that you safeguard your health. Here are 10 healthy habits that can help improve your health. 1. Observe your diet: Your dietary habits have a direct effect on your health. Whatever you consume or fail to consume consequently affects your ability to lead a healthy lifestyle. When thinking about diet and its effect on your health, emphasis should be put on particular issues such as the kind of food you eat, eating habits or schedule, and the portions you consume. As part of the initiative to lead a healthy lifestyle and improve on your health, you should endeavor to consume a balanced diet in fair and well-distributed portions during breakfast, lunch, and supper. Your daily servings should comprise portions of proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vegetables, minerals, and water or fluids. 2. Exercise well: Physical exercise forms the backbone of maintaining a perfect body physique. Well-structured physical exercises impart your body with numerous health benefits including helping keep your muscles active. Aerobic exercises can also help with cardiac health through the maintenance of a good distribution of blood across every organ including the skin. Well-focused physical exercises can also help in maintaining a perfect balance of certain physical attributes such as body weight and overall body shape. When thinking about exercises as part of your routine, you should endeavor to maintain a perfect balance between the different kinds of body exercises you have, including aerobic exercises and body-trimming exercises. 3. Slotting time for health check-ups: Irrespective of whether you feel sick or not, health checkups are crucial when it comes to improving your health. Finding time to either visit a health facility for a health checkup or even utilize the Home Doctor Service for convenience when securing appointments with your nutritionist or doctor allows you to evaluate the progress you have gained so far in your bid to lead a healthy life. 4. Get sufficient sleep: Your sleeping patterns do directly or indirectly influence how healthy you will be. Without sufficient sleep on a daily basis, you will stand to lose out on your productivity while detrimentally affecting your physical health. As a recommendation, your body needs not less than eight hours of uninterrupted sleep to maintain the right physiological condition for body growth. Lack of sufficient sleep compromises your immune system, thereby leading to vulnerabilities to disease conditions. 5. Meditate often: Meditation is often disregarded when it comes to the observation of healthy lifestyles. However, research has shown that sufficient meditation on a daily basis does have physiological and mental benefits. Meditating sufficiently gives your body an opportunity to deeply relax, something crucial for your immune system. The practice is also crucial in helping control stress, anxiety, and other forms of emotional suffering that can take a toll on your health. Besides, meditating sufficiently helps in building mental awareness while improving your ability to control addictions. 6. Taking water, lots of water: Staying hydrated is a crucial factor in maintaining your body's health. The human body is 60% water while all other crucial organs in the body such as the brain, lungs, kidneys, bones, and muscles are comprised of between 60 and 85% water. The only way to stay sufficiently hydrated is to take not less than 2 liters of water on a daily basis. To help nature this habit well, you should endeavor to drink water even when you do not feel thirsty. 7. Socialize effectively: Being social, surprisingly, has a huge benefit on your health and can help much when it comes to your health improvement habits. Socializing with your friends helps brighten your moods through laughing and playing. This practice helps improve your mental capacity and general immune health through the production of certain hormones. Such hormones, when circulated in the body, help maintain a perfect physiological condition for a healthy life. Such a social life also helps keep away detrimental health practices such as stress and being frightened. 8. Cook for yourself more often: Sometimes, it pays to give yourself an additional challenge when it comes to your diet. You may, therefore, prefer cooking for yourself rather than eating out. Hotel or restaurant-prepared food does not offer you much of the flexibility that you often desire. Cooking for yourself ensures that you observe the strict dietary habits that you so much need to lead a healthy lifestyle. Also, the experience of cooking in the kitchen gives you a positive mental challenge. It also serves as an opportunity for social development that is crucial for your general body health. 9. Have a proper schedule: Whereas it may sound unbelievable, the kind of schedule you lead on a daily basis can directly influence your ability to live a healthy life. To enhance your health, you should endeavor to ensure that your day is well planned with activities being slotted rightly. Such planning comes in handy in helping keep away unwanted habits while also taking charge of your health. A properly planned schedule is the right platform that ensures that any health-based resolution you set in place is upheld and regarded accordingly. 10. Have a good interaction with nature: Nature has an indirect way of helping keep your body healthy. Interacting with nature more often as part of your routine schedule gives your body an opportunity to experience some benefits. You should, therefore, endeavor to factor in much time to take a break from your office or home enclosures and have a nature walk. Any sightseeing events such as strolling down the forest and beholding trees and birds help your body to relax as much as possible. Read Also: The Top 6 Vitamins And Minerals All Women Over 40 Should Take How To Live Healthily Even If You Have A Full-Time Job The Health Benefits Of Figure Skating Explained

Living With Diabetes – What are the Possible Complications?