Category: Diabetes

Children's Health, Diabetes, Get in shape, Healthy Lifestyle, Jacksonville Illinois, Men's Health, Springfield Illinois, Taylorville Illinois

Diabetes is a leading cause of death in the US

Central Counties Health Centers

One in 10 Americans has diabetes, which is equivalent to 30 million people. It can cause blindness, nerve damage, kidney disease, and other health problems if not controlled. It is estimated 84 million adults in the US are at high risk of developing type 2 diabetes. However, people who are at risk for type 2 diabetes can lower their risk by more than half if they make healthy changes such as eating healthy, getting more physical activity, and losing weight. 

So, what are the symptoms of diabetes? 

•    Urinating often 

•    Feeling very thirsty 

•    Feeling very hungry – even though you are eating 

•    Extreme fatigue 

•    Blurry vision 

•    Cuts/bruises that are slow to heal

•    Weight loss – even though you are eating more (type 1) 

•    Tingling, pain, or numbness in the hands/feet (type 2) 

Early detection and treatment of diabetes can decrease the risk of developing complications of diabetes. 

Although there are many similarities between type 1 and type 2 diabetes, the cause of each is very different – as is the treatment. Women with gestational diabetes often have no symptoms, which is why it’s important for at-risk women to be tested at the proper time during pregnancy. 

If you have any questions or concerns about diabetes symptoms speak with your health provider. At Central Counties Health Centers we offer FREE diabetes education classes each month. These take place at our Cook Street location and are taught by the SIU School of Medicine dieticians. You can reserve a seat at our next class by calling Vickie at 217-788-2381. Please leave a message and your name and number. Be sure to mention that you would like to attend the diabetic class.

There is a $50 gift card drawing at the end of each class, but you must attend the entire class to be eligible. Keep an eye out on our Facebook page for class dates. 

Diabetes, Springfield Illinois

Have you signed up for our September diabetes class?

Central Counties Health Centers

If you are yet to attend one of our Living Well With Diabetes classes you can expect to learn, from a registered diabetic dietician, about the pancreas, insulin, the types of diabetes – Type 1, Type 2, and gestational diabetes.  You will also learn how diabetes affects the body, including your eyes, nerves, kidneys, teeth, feet, heart and blood vessels. The diabetic dietician will go over good foot care to prevent any problems arising from your diabetes. Demonstrations on injection methods will also be given.

If you are diabetic you should see your doctor every three-to-six months, your ophthalmologist (eye doctor) annually, your dentist every six months, and your podiatrist (foot doctor) as needed. It is important to take your medicine every day, as prescribed.

Attendees will also go over how, when, and why you should monitor your blood sugar. In addition, you will learn how to manage low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) and high blood sugar (hyperglycemia). Demonstrations on checking blood sugar will be given.

Eating healthy is an important part of living a healthy lifestyle for those with diabetes.  The diabetic dietician will explain and demonstrate how to prepare and eat balanced meals using The Diabetes Plate Method. You will learn a few easy ways to live a healthier lifestyle include; planning ahead, shopping with a list, and cleaning and storing food properly, as well as prepping some meals ahead of time. You will also learn how to choose healthy options when eating out. It is possible to prevent weight gain, lose weight, and maintain a healthy weight. Keeping a food record helps too.

It is advised that attendees make the very best of their support system through local support groups, weight management groups, online support groups, working out, and mental health counseling if needed.

Each class attendee is provided a book to take home and a bag of diabetes-related goodies, including a plate with three separated areas, measuring spoons, and a measuring cup.

For diabetic attendees that stay for the entire class, their name goes into drawing for a $50 gift card.

Our next FREE diabetes class is on Tuesday, September 25th 12.45pm to 3pm at Central Counties Health Centers conference room. Call Vickie at 217 788-2381 to reserve a seat.