2 Taking care of your blood sugar Simple steps to stay healthy with diabetes If you have diabetes, keeping your blood sugar in a healthy range is very important. Blood sugar that stays too high for too long can lead to health problems like heart disease, kidney issues, and vision loss. The good news is that regular testing and healthy habits can help you stay on track. What is A1C? An A1C test shows your average blood sugar over the past two to three months. Your provider uses this test to see how well your diabetes is being managed. Adults with diabetes should have an A1C test at least once a year. Some people may need it more often. Other important diabetes tests In addition to A1C testing, adults with diabetes should also have: • Kidney tests to check how well your kidneys are working • Eye exams to protect your vision These tests help find problems early, when they are easier to treat. How you can help manage your diabetes You can take small steps each day to improve your health. • Go to regular visits with your healthcare provider. • Take medicines as prescribed. • Eat nourishing foods and stay active. • Ask questions if you don’t understand your care plan. Your provider may also talk with you about medicines that help protect your heart and control cholesterol. Presbyterian Health Plan (PHP) members with diabetes can earn up to $75 ($25 per screening) annually. Earn rewards for getting an A1C test, diabetic retinopathy test, and kidney screening. If you or a loved one has any of these symptoms, immediately get to a cool place. If you can’t get to an airconditioned building, at least find some shade. Once there: • Lie down and elevate the legs to get blood flowing to the heart. • Remove tight or extra clothing. • Place cool, wet towels on the skin, or take a cool (not cold) bath to lower internal body temperature. • Take small sips of fluids like water or a sports drink. Don’t drink anything with caffeine or alcohol. Get emergency help if symptoms don’t improve or you still have a fever of 102 degrees after 30 minutes of initial treatment. If you or someone else goes into shock, faints, has seizures, or isn’t breathing, call 911 immediately and begin CPR on the person who isn’t breathing. If you’ve experienced a heat-related illness, be sure to rest and let your body recover. You’ll be more sensitive to heat for about a week afterward. Stay cool, and avoid exercise. Ask your healthcare provider when it’s safe to return to your regular routine. Sources: American Academy of Family Physicians; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; Federal Emergency Management Agency Stay cool in extreme heat — Continued from front page
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