Primary Care

Self-Care Tips | Diabetes

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Diabetes is a disease that occurs when your body is not producing enough insulin or is not using insulin properly.

Symptoms of diabetes

• Excessive thirst
• Feeling hungry (even after eating)
• Dry mouth
• Frequent urination
• Unexplained weight loss  
• Fatigue
• Blurred vision
• Irritability

What you can do to help prevent diabetes

• Avoid foods that are high in sugar and fat
• Eat three times a day, at the same time every day. This will keep your sugar levels steady.
• Add fiber to your diet, such as green leafy vegetables, grains and fruits.
• Avoid alcohol 
• Lose weight if you're overweight
• Exercise
• Take medicine prescribed by your doctor
• See your doctor regularly

When to call your primary care provider

• If any symptoms of diabetes continue
• Numbness or tingling in the feet and legs
• Confusion, sweating, pale skin
• Changes in vision
•  Fruity odor on the breath
•  Sleepiness
• Vomiting or diarrhea

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