Diabetes - Diagnosis and Prevention

Have You Been Tested Recently?

It's never too late to be checked for diabetes. More than 20.8 million people in the United States have diagnosed or undiagnosed diabetes and is expected to reach 39 million by 2050, according to the National Business Health Coalition.

With more than 1.5 million new cases being diagnosed each year, it may be a good idea to have yourself checked if you are at a high risk of developing diabetes. Below is some information that can help you determine if you may be at risk. More information, including a risk assessment test, can be found at the American Diabetes Association's website.

Risk Factors for Diabetes

The following can increase your risk of developing diabetes:

1. Over 40 years of age
2. Race or ethnic background
3. Being overweight compared to your height
4. Low physical activity
5. High blood pressure or high cholesterol
6. History of diabetes during pregnancy
7. Family history of diabetes

Symptoms of Diabetes

1. Urinating often
2. Being very thirsty
3. Being more tired than usual
4. Unusual weight loss
5. Being very hungry
6. Blurry vision

Preventing Type 2 Diabetes

The first step to preventing diabetes is to know if you are at risk by asking your health care provider if you need to be tested for pre-diabetes. If it is determined that you are at risk, your health care provider may develop a simple life-style management plan that could include any of the following:

1. Eating a healthy diet that is low in fat and includes eating a good amount of fruit and vegetables
2. Being physically active for at least 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week
3. Keeping your weight within your BMI (Body Mass Index) or compared to your height
4. Keeping your blood pressure in a healthy range
5. Taking medications as prescribed by your doctor

Getting Dental Care While Having Diabetes

Good oral hygiene is especially important for those who have diabetes. Research has found that poor oral health can have a direct relationship to diabetes.

Poor oral health provides opportunities for bacteria to enter the bloodstream, which can raise sugar levels and require your body to create more insulin. On the other hand, diabetes slows your ability to heal. The slower your body heals, the more likely infections can progress to gingivitis, periodontal disease or tooth loss.

Make it easy on yourself. Keep your diabetes under control and maintain good oral hygiene:

1. Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a soft bristle toothbrush and toothpaste
2. Replace your toothbrush every three months
3. Floss daily
4. Get a dental check-up and teeth cleaning at least twice a year
5. Avoid smoking and other forms of tobacco
6. Avoid candy and other sugary foods
7. Eat a well-balanced diet
8. Contact your dentist if you notice

Always remind your dentist that you have diabetes and eat before your dental visit to keep your blood glucose level under control. Maintaining a good control of your blood sugar levels before and after a dental visit will reduce the risk of diabetic and oral complications.