Diabetes Treatment Guidelines Uk

Diabetes is a long-term health condition that affects millions of people in the UK. It can lead to serious health issues such as heart attacks, stroke, blindness and kidney failure if it isn’t managed and treated properly. This is why it is so important for all people with diabetes to follow the diabetes treatment guidelines set out by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE).

NICE recommends that all people with diabetes should be offered a structured education programme, which should include advice on:

• Healthy eating
• Physical activity
• Self-monitoring of blood glucose levels
• Sick day management
• Medication management
• Smoking cessation

NICE also recommends that all people with diabetes should receive regular annual reviews by their healthcare professional. These reviews should include:

• A review of medication
• A review of lifestyle
• A review of blood glucose levels
• A review of body mass index (BMI)
• A review of blood pressure
• A review of lipid levels
• A review of kidney function
• A review of feet
• A review of eye screening

Diabetes Treatment Guidelines UK – Blood Glucose Levels

It is important that people with diabetes keep their blood glucose levels within the recommended targets. For most people with diabetes, the target blood glucose levels are:

• Pre-meal: 4-7mmol/L
• Two hours after meals: less than 8mmol/L

If the blood glucose levels are too high, it can lead to long-term health problems. It is important to take steps to reduce the levels as soon as possible. This may involve making changes to diet and lifestyle, as well as taking medication. It is also important to monitor the levels regularly to ensure that they remain within the target range.

Diabetes Treatment Guidelines UK – Diet and Lifestyle

Making changes to diet and lifestyle is an important part of managing diabetes. Eating a healthy, balanced diet and taking regular exercise can help to keep blood glucose levels within the target range. It is also important to maintain a healthy weight, as this can help to reduce the risk of developing diabetes-related health problems.

The Department of Health recommends that people with diabetes should aim to consume at least five portions of fruit and vegetables every day. This should include a variety of different types, as different fruits and vegetables contain different vitamins and minerals. It is also important to limit the consumption of processed and sugary foods, as these can increase the risk of developing health problems.

Regular physical activity can help to reduce the risk of developing diabetes-related health problems. It can also help to improve blood glucose levels and reduce the need for medication. The Department of Health recommends that all adults should be physically active for at least 30 minutes every day. This can include activities such as walking, cycling or swimming.

Diabetes Treatment Guidelines UK – Medication

Medication may be necessary to help manage diabetes. Different types of medication can help to reduce blood glucose levels and reduce the risk of developing complications. It is important to follow the advice of a healthcare professional when taking medication, as some types may cause side effects. It is also important to monitor the levels regularly to ensure that the medication is working effectively.

Diabetes Treatment Guidelines UK – Self-Monitoring

Self-monitoring of blood glucose levels is an important part of managing diabetes. It is important to monitor the levels regularly to ensure that they remain within the target range. This can be done using a home blood glucose monitor or by testing at a GP practice or local pharmacy. Testing the levels regularly can help to identify any problems that may arise, and allow changes to be made if necessary.

Diabetes Treatment Guidelines UK – Sick Day Management

It is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of diabetes-related health problems, such as high blood sugar levels or low blood sugar levels. It is also important to know what to do if these problems occur. If the problem is severe, it is important to seek medical help immediately.

If the problem is mild, it is important to follow the advice of a healthcare professional. This may involve making changes to diet and lifestyle, as well as taking medication. It is also important to monitor the levels regularly to ensure that they remain within the target range.

Diabetes Treatment Guidelines UK – Smoking Cessation

Smoking is a major risk factor for developing diabetes-related health problems. It is important for people with diabetes to quit smoking, as this can help to reduce the risk of developing complications. The Department of Health recommends that people with diabetes should be offered support to help them quit smoking, such as prescription medication, nicotine replacement therapy or counselling.

Conclusion

Diabetes is a long-term health condition that can lead to serious health problems if it isn’t managed and treated properly. It is important for all people with diabetes to follow the diabetes treatment guidelines set out by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). These guidelines include advice on healthy eating, physical activity, self-monitoring of blood glucose levels, sick day management, medication management and smoking cessation. Following these guidelines can help to reduce the risk of developing complications associated with diabetes.