Diabetes Management: Strengthening Support for Carers

Understanding Diabetes

Diabetes is characterised by an abnormal regulation of blood sugar, or glucose, levels in the body. This intricate metabolic disorder can lead to a wide range of complications and significantly affect various organ systems.

Glucose comes from the foods you eat and is carried by your blood to your body's cells, where it is used for energy. Insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas, plays a crucial role in regulating blood glucose levels. 

Diabetes occurs when there is a problem with insulin production or how the body responds to insulin.

There are three main types of diabetes:

1. Type 1 Diabetes

This is an autoimmune condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. As a result, the body cannot produce enough insulin. This is typically diagnosed in children and young adults and requires daily insulin injections or an insulin pump to manage blood sugar levels. The exact cause is not well understood, but it's believed to involve genetic and environmental factors, as well as an autoimmune response.



2. Type 2 Diabetes

This is the most common form of diabetes and is often linked to lifestyle factors, including poor diet, lack of physical activity, and obesity. In type 2 diabetes, the body becomes resistant to the effects of insulin, and the pancreas may not produce enough insulin to maintain normal blood sugar levels. Initially, it can often be managed with lifestyle changes, such as diet and exercise, but some individuals may require oral medications or insulin as the condition progresses.

3. Gestational Diabetes

This type of diabetes occurs during pregnancy and typically resolves after childbirth. It can increase the risk of both the mother and child developing type 2 diabetes in the future.

Common symptoms of diabetes include:

• Increased thirst and frequent urination
• Unexplained weight loss
• Fatigue
• Blurred vision
• Slow-healing wounds or frequent infections
• Tingling or numbness in the hands and feet (often in type 2 diabetes)

Additionally, individuals with diabetes should work closely with healthcare professionals to monitor and manage their condition effectively. Proper management helps prevent complications such as heart disease, kidney damage, nerve damage, and vision problems.



The Role of Carers in Diabetes Management

Recognising the crucial role of caregivers and providing them with the necessary resources and assistance is vital in ensuring the well-being of both the person with diabetes and their primary carers.

INS LifeGuard understands these challenges and offers a comprehensive suite of products and services to ease the burden of diabetes management. 

Advantages of INS LifeGuard's TeleHealth Services

Our TeleHealth products and services are available to help monitor the health of individuals, especially those with medical conditions.

Takeaway

The burden on carers is heavier than ever, and it's essential that we recognise the immense contribution they make to the health and well-being of someone they care about. The responsibility they shoulder is tremendous, and their tireless efforts deserve our utmost respect and support.

With INS LifeGuard, you're not alone in this journey. We are dedicated to making your situation more manageable, less stressful, and ultimately, filled with hope and improved health.

To find out more about the products and support INS LifeGuard provides call 1800 636 040 or visit our website here.