Todays topic is not new – in fact we hear it every day, but today let's talk about “me” (”Me” as in the person reading this letter) It is the dread D. word. “D is for Diabetes”. So what. It's the other person, not me. But......how do you know. This is a plea for every reader to request a blood sugar test next visit to your GP. Any figure over 5.0 is suspect. The higher the figure, the greater the risk.

DREAD 'D WORD'

Diabetes means cells in the pancreas (a large abdominal organ) which produce insulin are not working properly. Insulin converts sugar to energy in cells, allowing normal activity. Excess sugar is stored as fat, which in turn aggravates the situation. But the increased sugar (glucose) in the blood vessels, over time, silently destroys blood vessel lining, which in turn affects every part of the system.

So there is an increasing cascade of horrible symtoms. Like visual disturbances (including cataract or clouding of the lens), reduced circulation to the limbs, specially the feet. These can turn blue, numb or tingle, and turn to gangrene if untreated. Kidney filtration is affected. Arteries harden, blood supply to the heart is impeded, elevated blood pressure, heart pain called angina become common. This is all aggravated with smoking.

RED FLAGS

Common early symptoms are increased thirst, increased urinary output, fatigue, dry itchy skin and overweight. These demand prompt investigation and intervention. A family history of diabetes greatly increases risks.

Early treatment is relatively simple. Lose weight, get more exercise, reduce carbohydrate intake, eat more fruit, veggies, nuts, berries, and high fibre foods. It is not hard. Say “No” to cakes and pastry, fried foods, sweets, fizz drinks and go easy on the slops.

If this is inadequate, oral medication is the next step, and along with the above points, is often successful. If not, then you are headed for insulin injections, and this is usually for life This is a nuisance, and daily blood sugar readings are necessary up to four times a day.

There are at least 2 million known diabetics in Australia, but it is believed the true figure may be four or five million, most undiagnosed. Majority are called Type 2, and come on anywhere from the thirties to the eighties.

(Type 1 is different, a child being born with the disease, but often not diagnosed for several years, and requires insulin for life.). Each year, thousands of feet and legs are amputated, thousands of cataracts removed, more thousands of premature deaths through kidney and heart failure, or stroke. It is an ugly picture, largely preventable.

So ... Get as much physical activity as possible, avoid overweight, and lose weight if obese. Eat and drink sensibly, do not smoke, and risks are minimised. Phone “Diabetes Australia” if you want more information.

MUM AND DAD

If the house is getting too big, lawns and gardens a headache, domestic chores a misery, or lonely living by yourself, visit us at “Vimiera Village”. This lovely parkland setting village at 217 Vimiera Road, Eastwood, (next door to Epping High School) removes all hassles, as others do the work. Independent units are available.

Or Assisted Living units, where domestic work, cleaning, linen and laundry are provided. Lovely meals prepared by our own cook on site. Also on site managers and emergency call service. Log onto vimieravillage.com.au and I will take you on a virtual tour. Phone David on 02 9868 7544 for more information or an obligation free inspection. Love to hear from you.

Until next month, every good wish from your friend,