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Diabetes

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Know Your Diabetes ABCs

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Heart disease and stroke are the leading causes of death for people with diabetes. Controlling the ABCs of diabetes -- your blood glucose, your blood pressure, and your cholesterol as well as stopping smoking -- can help prevent these and other complications from diabetes.

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The A1C Test

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The A1C test (A-one-C), also called the hemoglobin A1C test, shows overall blood glucose for the past 3 months. Your health care provider does this test to see what your blood glucose level is most of the time. This test should be done at least twice a year for all people with diabetes and for some people more often as needed. For many people with diabetes, an A1C test result of under 7 percent usually means that their diabetes treatment is working well and their blood glucose is under control.

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If your A1C is above your target goal, take action. You may need a change in your meal plan, your level of physical activity, or the medications you take to lower your chance of getting diabetes problems like heart disease or kidney damage. Talk with your health care provider about your A1C goal and how to reach it. Learn more about the A1C test.

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Check Your Blood Pressure

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High blood pressure makes your heart work too hard. This can lead to a stroke and other problems such as kidney disease. Your blood pressure should be checked at every doctor visit. The target blood pressure for most people with diabetes is less than 140/90 but may be different for you. Talk with your health care provider about your blood pressure goal. Learn about ways to check your blood pressure.

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Have Your LDL Cholesterol Checked

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Low density lipoprotein, or LDL cholesterol, is the bad cholesterol that builds up in your blood vessels. It causes the vessels to narrow and harden, which can lead to a heart attack. Your doctor should check your LDL at least once a year. Talk with your health care provider about your cholesterol goal. Learn more about lowering LDL cholesterol.

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Stop Smoking

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Smoking and diabetes are a dangerous mix. Smoking raises your risk for many diabetes problems. If you quit smoking,

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If you smoke, stop smoking. Ask for help so that you don\u2019t have to do it alone. You can start by calling 1\u2013800\u2013QUITNOW or 1\u2013800\u2013784\u20138669.

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For more on how to quit smoking, see Quitting Smoking for Older Adults.

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Syndicated Content Details:
Source URL: http://nihseniorhealth.gov/diabetes/knowyourdiabetesabcs/01.html
Source Agency: NIH Senior Health (NIHSH)
Captured Date: 2015-11-19 15:16:00.0
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