Treatment:
- Follow the healthcare provider's treatment recommendations. Keep records of blood sugar levels as often as recommended by the healthcare provider, including the times the levels were checked, when and how much insulin or medication was taken, when and what was eaten, and when and for how long the patient exercised. Call the healthcare provider if the patient has any problems with their treatment or symptoms that suggest poor glucose control.
- Attend diabetes education classes at the local hospital. The more educated the patient and their family are about the disease, the better they are likely to do.
- Regular visits to the primary healthcare provider
- If the patient takes insulin, they should see the healthcare provider about every three months or more often. For other diabetics, every three to six months is generally adequate, unless they are having problems.
- Recognize low blood sugar levels and know how to treat them
- The patient and their family should be taught how to recognize the signs and symptoms of low blood sugar levels. The patient should have a clear plan for treating low blood sugar levels and know when to call 911. Mild symptoms include confusion and sweating, moreover, these symptoms can progress to lethargy, agitation (sometimes with violent, jerking motions), or even seizures.
