The Simpson Centre and PENN SURGERY
Diabetes
Diabetes Mellitus ( usually referred to as just “ diabetes ”) is an important , lifelong and potentially life-limiting health problem . It is becoming increasingly common but thankfully , healthcare professionals are helping people to manage the condition better as new information and treatments become available .
What is diabetes ? We use a hormone called insulin to move the sugar ( that we take in from our diet ) from the bloodstream into the cells , where it is needed . In diabetes , this process breaks down , either because the body stops making enough insulin or the insulin doesn ’ t work as well . In the short term this can make you tired , thirsty and pass more urine as well as increasing the likelihood of certain infections . In the long term it can have a range of serious consequences as the excess sugar in the blood damages our eyes , nerves , kidneys and blood vessels as well as increasing the likelihood of heart attacks and stroke .
How do we treat diabetes ?
There are two main types of diabetes : type 1 and type 2 . Type 1 diabetes usually comes on in childhood or early adulthood when the body stops making insulin altogether . People with this type of diabetes usually become unwell quite quickly and once diagnosed , need to inject insulin daily for the rest of their lives . In type 2 diabetes ( which is more common ) the body still makes some insulin but tends to produce decreasing amounts whilst also becoming more resistant to its effects . The symptoms usually come on more slowly and the condition is often picked up by a blood test done as part of a health check or when investigating another health problem . Often people are advised to adjust their lifestyle initially but as the condition progresses , tablet treatments and eventually injectable treatments including insulin may be required .
In type 2 diabetes , ensuring a healthy lifestyle is essential to managing the condition well . We advise regular exercise ( we would recommend a brisk walk for half an hour a day at least five days a week ) and a good diet . Losing weight is one of the most important ways of improving the condition .
The Simpson Centre & Penn Surgery Diabetes Team
Dr Matthew Robinson , Dr Johanna Layng , Nurse Lanie , Nurse Rose , Nurse Mandy , Joanne Harrison ( Administrator )
22 To advertise in Hiya Bucks text or call 07947 349134