When To Call A Professional

If you have diabetes, you should see your doctor regularly.

Because people with high blood sugar levels have a higher risk of dehydration, you should contact your doctor immediately if you develop vomiting or diarrhea and are not able to drink enough fluids.

Monitor your blood sugars as advised by your health care team. Report any significant deviations in blood sugar levels.

Prognosis

Your treatment plan is likely to require adjustment over time. Insulin resistance increases with age, and the cells in the pancreas that make insulin are likely to wear out as the pancreas tries to keep up with the body's extra insulin needs. After the first few years of treatment, the majority of people with type 2 diabetes require more than one medicine to keep their blood sugars controlled. About one out of three people with type 2 diabetes requires insulin.

The prognosis in people with type 2 diabetes varies depending on how well an individual modifies the risk of complications. Heart attack, stroke and kidney disease can result in premature death. Disability due to blindness, amputation, heart disease, stroke and nerve damage may occur. Four to six out of every 100 people with type 2 diabetes become dependent on dialysis treatments because of kidney failure.

There is a tremendous amount you can do to decrease your risk of complications. A healthy diet, regular exercise, careful attention to your blood sugar levels, and reducing your other risks of heart disease all can help you to maintain your health and prevent complications.

Additional Info

American Diabetes Association ATTN: National Call Center 1701 N. Beauregard St. Alexandria, VA 22311 Toll-Free: (800) 342-2383 http://www.diabetes.org/

American Dietetic Association 120 South Riverside Plaza Suite 2000 Chicago, IL 60606-6995 Toll-Free: (800) 877-1600 http://www.eatright.org/

National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse 1 Information Way Bethesda, MD 20892-3560 Phone: (301) 654-3327 Toll-Free: (800) 860-8747 www.niddk.nih.gov/health/diabetes/ndic.htm

National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disorders Office of Communications and Public Liaison Building 31, Room 9A04 Center Drive, MSC 2560 Bethesda, MD 20892-2560 Phone: (301) 496-3583 Fax: (301) 496-7422 http://www.niddk.nih.gov/

Weight-Control Information Network 1 Win Way Bethesda, MD 20892-3665 Phone: (202) 828-1025 Toll-Free: (877) 946-4627 Fax: (202) 828-1028 http://www.niddk.nih.gov/health/nutrit/win.htm