The Top 5 Diabetes-Related Buzzwords Every Newly Diagnosed Type 1 Diabetic in the UK Should Know
Being diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes can feel overwhelming. From understanding how your body works to managing insulin, it can take time to become familiar with the terminology used by healthcare professionals. If you’re newly diagnosed, there are several important buzzwords you’ll likely encounter that will help you understand your condition and how to manage it effectively.
Here’s a guide to the top five diabetes-related terms every newly diagnosed Type 1 diabetic should know:
- Insulin
What it is: Insulin is a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar (glucose) levels in the body. When you have Type 1 diabetes, your pancreas doesn’t produce any insulin, so you need to inject it or use an insulin pump to manage your blood sugar levels. There are different types of insulin – rapid-acting, long-acting, and intermediate-acting – each serving a different purpose in regulating glucose levels.
Why it matters: Understanding insulin and how it works is crucial because you’ll need to calculate your doses based on the food you eat, your activity levels, and your blood sugar readings. Insulin pumps and pens are commonly used for insulin delivery, and they play a key role in managing your diabetes.
- Carbohydrate Counting
What it is: Carbohydrate counting, or "carb counting," is the practice of calculating the amount of carbohydrate in the food you eat to determine how much insulin you need to inject. Carbohydrates directly impact your blood sugar levels, so knowing how to count them will help you balance your insulin intake and keep your blood sugar levels stable.
Why it matters: This is one of the most essential skills in diabetes management. In the UK, many newly diagnosed individuals are taught to carb count, as it allows for more precise control of blood glucose. Knowing how to read food labels, estimate carbs in meals, and adjust insulin doses accordingly can empower you to manage your condition effectively. Courses such as the DAFNE (Dose adjustment for normal eating) course are available at most Diabetes clinics for newly diagnosed patients or those that need a refresher.
- Hypoglycaemia & Hyperglycaemia (Hypo & Hyper)
What they are:
- Hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar) occurs when your blood sugar falls below normal levels, usually under 4 mmol/L. Symptoms include shaking, sweating, dizziness, and confusion. Severe hypoglycaemia can lead to unconsciousness if not treated.
- Hyperglycaemia (high blood sugar) occurs when your blood sugar levels are too high, usually over 10 mmol/L. It can cause symptoms like excessive thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, and blurred vision.
Why it matters: Both hypoglycaemia and hyperglycaemia are common occurrences for Type 1 diabetics, and knowing how to recognise and treat both is essential. Having a plan for what to do when blood sugar levels become too low or too high can keep you safe and prevent complications. Treatment involves carrying fast-acting glucose treatments for hypoglycaemia and insulin adjustments for hyperglycaemia.
- HbA1c (Glycated Haemoglobin)
What it is: HbA1c is a blood test that measures your average blood sugar levels over the past 2-3 months. It gives healthcare providers an overall picture of how well your diabetes has been controlled. In the UK, an HbA1c target of less than 48 mmol/mol (6.5%) is usually recommended for most adults with Type 1 diabetes.
Why it matters: Monitoring your HbA1c levels is essential for long-term diabetes management. While daily blood sugar monitoring is necessary, keeping track of your HbA1c provides a broader view of how effectively your insulin regimen and lifestyle are controlling your blood sugar levels. It’s important to maintain your HbA1c within a healthy range to reduce the risk of complications.
- Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM)
What it is: Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) is a method of tracking blood sugar levels throughout the day and night via a small sensor placed under the skin. The sensor sends real-time data to a device reader or smartphone app, helping you see trends in your blood sugar levels and providing alerts if they become too high or low.
Why it matters: CGM is a game-changer for many people with Type 1 diabetes. While it isn’t a replacement for insulin injections, CGM provides a more accurate and continuous picture of your glucose levels, reducing the risk of both hypos and hypers. It’s particularly useful for fine-tuning insulin doses and ensuring better control over time. In the UK, people with Type 1 diabetes are eligible for a subsidised CGM device through the NHS.
Navigating Type 1 diabetes can be a challenging journey, but learning the key terms and concepts will help you take control and make informed decisions. From insulin and carb counting to understanding your HbA1c and using CGM technology, these buzzwords represent the foundation of effective diabetes management. Don’t hesitate to ask your diabetes clinic team for further explanations and resources to help you better understand and manage your diabetes.
By becoming familiar with these terms and building a solid foundation of knowledge, you’ll be better prepared to live a healthy and active life with Type 1 diabetes.
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