Diabetes makes it harder for the body to heal. Even minor problems, like a blister, can become infected. If not treated, infections can spread and damage nearby tissues. Prompt treatment by your healthcare provider can help clear up infections and restore your health.
Monitoring the level of sugar (glucose) in your blood is the key to controlling your diabetes. To be sure your glucose and insulin are in balance, check your blood sugar regularly. You can check your blood sugar level by using a blood glucose meter. Here's how.
Type 2 diabetes is a long-term (chronic) condition. You'll need to balance your medicine with diet and activity. This will help you manage your type 2 diabetes. You will also need to check your blood sugar often. And you'll work with your doctor to prevent complications.
Diabetes is a lifelong condition. Learn how to manage your diabetes by doing things like eating healthy foods, getting good-quality sleep, and checking your blood sugar.
Eating right is an important part of keeping your blood sugar in target range. Learn how to make healthy choices when you eat out.
To keep your energy level up, your body needs food that has carbohydrates. But carbs also raise blood sugar levels higher and faster than other foods. Learn which foods contain carbohydrates, and the importance of carb counting.
Learn what to expect before, during, and after heart valve surgery.
A stent is a small metal coil or mesh tube that is placed in a narrowed artery through a catheter (a long, thin tube) to help improve blood flow to your heart. The stent permanently holds the passageway open and helps reduce the rate of restenosis, renarrowing of the artery.
An ICD is a device that is placed permanently inside your body. An ICD keeps track of your heart rhythm (the speed and pattern of your heartbeat). If this rhythm becomes too fast or too slow, the ICD sends out electrical signals that help bring the rhythm back to normal. Read on to learn more.
ACE inhibitors widen blood vessels and increase the amount of blood your heart pumps. These medications also lower blood pressure and decrease the amount of work your heart has to perform.