Know Your 4 Key Numbers
How do you know if your diabetes is under control? The answer lies in the numbers. Manage your condition by following these guidelines.
1. Check your blood glucose often and log your results. Monitor your blood glucose as directed by your healthcare provider, usually before and after meals as well as at bedtime. Typical premeal plasma glucose levels should be between 90 and 130 mg/dL, while levels 1 to 2 hours after a meal should be under 180 mg/dL. Your optimal range and testing times may be different.
2. Get an A1c test at least twice a year. This test indicates how well your diabetes management plan is working. If your A1c value is over 7%, your doctor may recommend changes to your diet, exercise routine, or medication plan, and may suggest retesting A1c every 3 months until your numbers are better.
3. Keep track of your blood pressure. High blood pressure increases the risk of damage to your eyes, kidneys, and blood vessels. Blood pressure at or below 130/80 mm Hg is ideal for people with diabetes.
4. Get a cholesterol test. High cholesterol increases your risk of cardiovascular disease, heart attack, and stroke. Optimal cholesterol levels are 200 mg/dL or less for total cholesterol, 100 mg/dL or less for LDL, 150 mg/dL or less for triglycerides, and 40 mg/dL or more for HDL. Depending on your health, your target ranges may be different, so ask your healthcare provider what your goals should be.
Having diabetes requires more than just everyday blood glucose testing. By keeping track of all the key numbers and working with your healthcare provider to make changes to your treatment plan as needed, you'll be doing your best to protect your long-term health.
