Step 4: You are in charge - design a treatment plan

The goal of diabetes treatment is to maintain blood glucose at normal or near-normal levels.

This is the key that will keep you healthy and prevent long-term complications, such as heart disease, nerve problems, and eye problems.

By taking charge, you will feel better and healthier.

Let's design an action plan for your own self-care. Here are the basic components:

• Monitor your blood sugar.
• Work with a registered dietitian to find a meal plan that works for you.
• Lose weight or maintain your already healthy weight.
• Become more physically active and fit.
• Take oral medication or insulin if necessary.
• Make a plan to stop using tobacco as soon as possible if you use it now, or do not start.
• Discuss with your doctor starting aspirin or clopidogrel therapy to help prevent cardiovascular problems.
• Find out your 10-year risk for coronary heart disease. Consider taking an ACE inhibitor or beta-blocker if indicated.
• Get your kidney function checked every year.
• Have at least a simple neurological exam every year.
• Take care of your feet. Have them examined carefully at least once a year.
• Get the influenza vaccine each year.
• Get your eyes checked at least every 2 - 3 years, if the last exam was normal.
• See your primary doctor more frequently or consult with an endocrinologist if your plan is not working.

The next few steps of this guide describe the initial components in more detail. Remind yourself that you don't have to work on every step all at once. Taking small steps over time will get you to your goal.

Also remember that you are not alone. You are the most important person in this plan but your doctor and others (like a nurse and registered dietitian) involved in your health care will help you.

National Diabetes Fact Sheet

This is the official Fact Sheet developed jointly by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the National Institutes of Health, the American Diabetes Association, and other partners. The Fact Sheet is the authoritative source of information, statistics, and national estimates on diabetes in the United States.

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. 1997- A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.