Prognosis for Diabetes Patients

According to the Mayo Clinic, diabetes is a condition where the body produces too much glucose. Even though the body needs glucose for energy, too much glucose in the blood can create serious health problems.

Significance

• The University of Washington estimates that 15 million Americans have diabetes. Diabetes is among the leading causes of death in the country, and approximately 2 out of every 3 people with diabetes dies of some sort of heart condition. Diabetes is also a leading cause of blindness and kidney failure in the United States.

Time Frame

• The Mayo Clinic suggests that in order to survive diabetes, a person must remain in contact with a medical professional on a regular basis for the rest of his life. There is no cure for diabetes, so ongoing lifestyle maintenance is the only way to survive the disease.

Medication

• Medicinenet.com says that the ideal blood glucose level for anyone is between 70 and 120 mg/dl. This can be achieved through monitored use of diabetes medication. The chances of developing diabetes-related complications drop dramatically with the use of diabetes medication, but constant monitoring by a doctor is necessary to make sure that the blood glucose levels do not fall too low.

Diet

• According to the University of Washington, a proper diabetes diet is something that is created by a nutritionist and doctor on a per patient basis. Proper diet can help regulate the glucose in the blood and prolong the life of someone with diabetes.

Exercise

• Exercise is recommended for people with diabetes. When you exercise, you lower your blood glucose level.