DIABETES

DEFINITION
Diabetes- is both a hereditary and lifestyle disease characterized by an increased
amount of sugar in the blood and an overflow of sugar in the urine. This is due to the
decrease of insulin production of the pancreas and decreased sensitivity of tissues to
insulin.
INDICATIONS OR SYMPTOMS
1.Excessive thirst and appetite
2.Abnormal craving for sweets
3.Increased urine output
4.Weight loss
5.Weakness and disturbance in vision
6.Dryness of the mouth and tongue
7.Numbness of fingers and toes

DANGER SYMPTOMS
Insulin reactions’ Diabetic coma’
1.Faintness 1. Extreme thirst
2.Dizziness 2. Fast, deep breathing
3.Sweating 3. Headache, weakness
4.Headache 4. More urine than usual
5.Nervousness, weakness 5. Pain and sickness in stomach
6.Double vision 6. Breath has sweetish odor
7.Hunger, tremors 7. Progressively increasing drowsiness
Insulin reaction- Means there is more insulin in the blood and less sugar.

Diabetic coma- Means there is more sugar in the blood and less insulin.

IMMEDIATE CARE
 Treatment for Insulin Reaction
1. Give orange juice or any fruit juice and candy.
2. Call a doctor or bring the patient to the nearest hospital.
3. If patient is conscious, ask if he has taken medicine or has eaten a meal.
4. Give solid food if he has not eaten.

 Treatment for Diabetic Coma

1. Call a doctor or take the patient immediately to the nearest hospital.
2. While waiting for the transfer to the hospital, the patient (if conscious) should be
given medication if he had been taking diabetic medications.
3. Patient should stay in bed and keep warm. If conscious, he should be given hot
liquids, salty broth, and water.

 Home Care Instructions

1. Diet is the main treatment and control for diabetes:
a. Diabetic diet should be prescribed individually by a physician. It should be
computed according to the calories needed daily.
b. The prescribed diet should be followed religiously for successful management.
 c. More calories from carbohydrates are necessary when doing vigorous
activities.

2. Exercise is the next important part in the diabetic regimen:

a. Walk for 30 minutes for at least five days a week.
b. Dietary adjustment is necessary for every change of activity.
c. Engage in sports activities aside from the regular walking exercise.

3. Medication
a. Insulin or other medication for diabetes is prescribed if sugar in the urine and
blood sugar are not controlled with diet and exercise.
b. Medication should be taken as prescribed and should not be stopped without
the knowledge of the physician.
c. Periodic blood sugar and urine checkups are very essential.

 Care for the Feet

1. Wash feet daily with mild soap and warm water. Wipe each toe dry by applying
pressure rather than by vigorous rubbing.
2. Apply lotion or cream on the feet and toes in order to keep the skin soft and free
from scales and dryness.
3. Exercise each toe. Pull toes gently and bend them up and down for 3 times.
Spread them out gently. Exercise the ankles and stretch the Achilles tendons.
4. Clean the nails with orange wood stick. Cut nails straight across, not along a
curve, to avoid injury. Do not cut the nails too short nor the embedded nail at the
tip of the toe.
5. Wear soft leather shoes that fit well. Shoes should not be too right or narrow.
6. Wear fitting stockings or socks.
7. Examine the feet and toes daily for any injury or pressures.
8. Gently rub the toes and legs to improve circulation.
9. Do not soak feet in very hot water or apply hot compress to the legs.
10. Do not use foot powder.