A Note of Encouragement, and Warning

How did everyone do last week on that quiz? Congrats to all who did well! For those of you who had no idea what the answers were, the back issues of the SEARCHLIGHT should be readily available at our public library, so you can cuddle up for some good study time next weekend.{{more}}

I do want to bring your attention to that question where I asked you to choose the person(s) who did not have diabetes, out of a list of several famous people. The answer of course is that they all have diabetes, some Type 1 and some Type 2. This question was hopefully a reminder, and even some encouragement to some of you to realize that having diabetes is not the end of the road. It is a challenge, yes, no one doubts that at all. As a chronic illness, it requires dedication from you to take control of your health, learn all you can, and grab it by the horns, so it will not run you over. Many people go through a period of some doubt and even depression when they are diagnosed, because of ideas they have about diabetes or bad outcomes they saw in someone else. This is a normal reaction. But don’t stay in the valleys; please start the climb to the top of the mountain. There are many resources available, your doctor nurse and local pharmacist being some of the most obvious. God sends help in many ways, and they are examples, so reach out and accept their help.

At the same time, I also want you to remember that Diabetes does not play. It is currently the leading cause of blindness, and one of the leading causes of kidney failure, loss of limbs and nerve problems in most countries. It is linked to heart problems and strokes. And it does affect many aspects of your life if not controlled, everything from depression to sexual relations (yes, all you men with diabetes and wondering why life in this area is not as “good” as usual, pay attention to your blood sugars).

Ladies, your babies are affected during pregnancy and other aspects of reproductive health do not go as well when you let diabetes run wild. Then, ultimately your life expectancy goes down if you let this disease take control.

So, this week, I am both shaking you by the shoulders and holding out my hand to encourage you. We have all lost family and friends to this disease, and many of us will go on to have it later in life. We need to do our best to prevent it, and work hard to control it when it does happen. You DO have a lot of control in this disease, so use it to your advantage. Stay safe and healthy Vincies!

Anita Ramsetty, MD endodocs@endocrinehelp.com
Medical Director Endocrine Care Group
www.endocrinehelp.com
Tel: 843-798-4227