Diabetic Management

Diabetes occurs when the pancreas no longer produces enough insulin or the insulin produced is not working effectively and the body cannot maintain normal blood glucose levels.

Insulin is a hormone that helps glucose move from the blood into the cells. When the body does not produce enough insulin, the blood glucose level rises.

Diabetes is diagnosed by testing the blood and finding abnormally high levels of glucose.

Three main types of diabetes affect Australians

 Type 1 Diabetes (previously known as insulin-dependent diabetes), 

• Type 1 diabetes is not caused by lifestyle factors.

Type 2 Diabetes (previously known as non-insulin-dependent diabetes)

• Type 2 diabetes is one of the fastest growing chronic diseases in Australia. 

Being overweight or obese and lifestyle factors such as not exercising and eating an unhealthy diet can contribute to type 2 diabetes, Additionally genetic predisposition can contribute to type 2 diabetes.

Research has shown that changes in lifestyle can assist to prevent or delay type 2 diabetes.

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM).

• This form of diabetes occurs during pregnancy and usually disappears after child birth

 Diagnosing Diabetes - Diabetes may be suspected if any of the following symptoms occur:

• frequent passing of urine;
• excessive thirst;
• weight loss;
• tiredness and lack of energy;
• frequent skin infections; and
• blurred vision.

For more information please follow the below links.

Department of Health NSW website - http://www.health.nsw.gov.au/Pages/a2z.aspx

Health Direct Australia website - http://www.healthdirect.gov.au/#!/health-topics

For more information or to book an appointment, please call (02) 4297 8672

The information is not a substitute for independent professional advice and should not be used as an alternative to professional health care.