The Best Medicine for Diabetes? Prevention. | AFC Urgent Care of East Tennessee
More than 30 million Americans have been diagnosed with diabetes. And millions more have pre-diabetes, meaning they’re at a high risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.
That’s why our team at AFC Urgent Care TN wants to offer some suggestions on how to protect your health—and lower your risk of developing diabetes.
Are You At Risk?
Tuesday, March 27, is the American Diabetes Association’s Diabetes Alert Day, which is observed annually to help educate the community about the dangers of diabetes when left undiagnosed or untreated. There’s no better time than now to educate yourself about the risk factors for diabetes, as well as the symptoms you might experience if you develop the condition.
There are a number of risk factors associated with developing pre-diabetes, Type 1 diabetes and Type 2 diabetes. These risk factors include:
- Increased age
- A family history of diabetes
- A sedentary lifestyle
- Being overweight or obese
- Previously being diagnosed with gestational diabetes
While there are some risk factors you can’t control, like your age and family history, you can control your lifestyle habits. A healthy lifestyle can keep you on the right track for preventing diabetes now and in the future.
The keys to a healthy lifestyle? Eat a balanced diet, don’t smoke, limit your alcohol consumption and get at least 30 minutes of physical activity on most days of the week. These steps can help you manage your weight and lower your risk of developing diabetes.
Are You Experiencing Diabetes Symptoms?
If you are at a higher risk of developing diabetes, keep a close eye out for symptoms of the condition, which may include:
- Blurred vision
- Dry mouth
- Fatigue
- Frequent urination
- Hunger
- Itchy skin
Do any of these symptoms sound familiar? Visit one of our AFC Urgent Care TN locations today to check on your blood glucose levels and find out where you stand.