Newly Diagnosed

What is diabetes? 

In simple terms, diabetes prevents your body converting sugars and starches in your food into energy. This is due to a problem associated with insulin that is needed to do this. With diabetes, the body can either no longer produce insulin, an important hormone (chemical messenger), or the body is resistant to the effects of insulin it does produce.

When we eat food, some special cells in our pancreas should produce insulin. The insulin transports glucose, made from carbohydrates (e.g. complex bulky sugars, which the body breaks down) in the food, into the cells, where it can be used by the body to provide energy. Sugars and starches are the most efficient source of food energy and are carried in the blood as glucose.

At DRWF, we provide a wealth of information to support those newly diagnosed with type 1 and type 2 diabetes. We provide diabetes and related health information that is relevant, clinically evidenced and up-to-date.

Diabetes is never mild and a diagnosis can be a daunting prospect. But with the right support and advice, it can be managed effectively.

Diagnosis 

At diagnosis you should be given a full explanation of diabetes and a care plan. You should be involved in agreeing goals and targets achievable by you and offered the chance to attend an educational event. Take a note of what is agreed. It will come in useful as you see your progress over time. At the very least you should have annual reviews for your diabetes including an explanation of blood tests, which, ideally, should be done a week or two prior to the consultation, to allow time for the results to be shared with you.

There is a national programme for eye screening for people with diabetes. You should also, as part of your annual health check, have your feet examined and your blood pressure reviewed. Most importantly, you should have an opportunity to discuss your care with your diabetes team and agree the next steps to protect your health.

Information and Support 

• Join a support group such as our Diabetes Wellness Network or other voluntary group
• Attend a Diabetes Wellness Event where you will hear diabetes and related health talks; make new friends; share information and experiences in a supported environment
• Search the web for information from reputable sources such as NHS Choices
  
  

Top tips to manage diabetes

Diabetes is never mild, but it can be managed:

• Being as physically active as possible improves insulin sensitivity.
• Aiming to keep blood glucose levels at your recommended targets can help
  protect the eyes, heart, kidneys and feet.
• What is your cholesterol level? If higher than recommended, cholesterol-lowering
  treatments (like statins) can help protect the heart.
• Regular blood pressure checks are important, as keeping at a recommended
  target level can help protect the heart and kidneys.
• Smoking is not good for health for several reasons, but adds risk when combined
  with diabetes. Both thicken the blood, encourage clot formation, and put a strain
  on the heart.
• Aiming for a healthy weight, even small amounts of weight loss, can contribute to
  improvements in both overall health and diabetes.