If you have Type 2 Diabetes, you know that living with it can be a challenge at times. But you don't have to feel intimidated or embarrassed when you go to see your doctor. If you feel like you can't get answers to your questions, there are ways to talk about them and get the best care you need. Self-advocacy is the most important thing when dealing with diabetes.
What does this mean, 'speaking for oneself'?
Simply put, 'self-advocacy' means advocating for your own needs and rights when managing your condition. It's like being your own health advocate. This practice can help you find the health information you need, understand it, and apply it to your life.
This is very important to create the feeling that you are controlling your diabetes, rather than it controlling you. Then you will feel more confident and in control as you go along this journey.
The importance of learning as much as possible about diabetes
It is very important to gain as much knowledge about diabetes as possible. Because, only when knowledge and action are combined can you keep your blood sugar levels at a healthy level. Then you can also prevent the complications that can occur due to diabetes.
Imagine, if you make some positive changes to your lifestyle and lower your blood sugar levels, you might be able to reduce the dosage of your medication, or even stop taking it altogether.
There are a few things you need to do first:
- Know your numbers: Know exactly what your A1c, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels are, and what their normal values are. Ask your doctor what they mean.
- Get help from technology: There are many things you can do to help manage your diabetes. There are free apps you can download to your phone to help you track your food intake, and there are devices like continuous glucose meters that can monitor your blood sugar levels. Talk to your doctor about these.
- Understand the 'how' and 'why' of medications: What happens to the medication you are given? Does it lower blood sugar? Does it protect your kidneys or heart? Does it help you lose weight? Find out exactly what these things are. Sometimes, depending on your insurance, there are ways to choose medications that are affordable and suitable for you.
- Make a lifestyle change: Following your treatment plan exactly can help prevent serious complications like heart disease, nerve damage, and blindness.Habits like controlling refined carbohydrates like rice, bread, and flour products, staying active, and managing stress will increase your chances of staying medication-free.
It may seem overwhelming to do all of this at once. To help you, you can ask your doctor to refer you to a diabetes care and education specialist (DCES) . They can understand your fears and concerns and help you prepare for your next visit.
Work together with the medical team
Diabetes is a disease that can affect you from head to toe. So, make sure you get your eyes checked, your teeth cleaned, your feet checked, your blood tests (lab tests), and any other necessary medical care. To stay healthy with type 2 diabetes, you need the support of a medical team.
"Where you get information is as important as the information you get."
There is a ton of information about diabetes on the internet, but you don't need to know it all at once. Your medical team can help you find the right information for you.
How exactly do you speak for yourself?
Don't be shy or afraid when talking to your doctor. Don't think that he will judge you. Even if you are usually someone who is reluctant to talk, try to speak with a little bit of sincerity. Because if you don't tell him about a problem or difficulty you are having, the doctor won't know about it. Your words can make a big difference in your treatment and the quality of your life.
Sometimes doctor appointments can be so stressful that you may forget to talk. But there are ways to make it easier.
| What you need to do | The benefit of it |
|---|---|
| Get ready and go. | Keep a diabetes journal and write down your blood sugar levels, medications, and any questions you have. That way, you won't forget anything. |
| Take someone you trust with you. | It can be a great relief to have a friend or family member with you. They can also help you remember what the doctor says. |
| Speak openly and honestly. | Even if the doctor says, "Eat well, exercise, take your medicine," tell them your real problems. For example, say things like: "Doctor, this medicine is a bit expensive," "I have a hard time finding time to cook," "My knees hurt so I can't walk." |
| Believe in yourself. | If something doesn't feel right to you, if you don't quite understand the advice being given, or if you can't figure out how to incorporate it into your life, be sure to ask about it. |
When your treatment plan is working well, share that good news with your doctor. Because you are the center of this entire medical team. You know your body, your experiences, your goals, your problems, and your schedule best. Therefore, you are the one who can best determine the best way to control your blood sugar levels and stay away from side effects.
Take-Home Message
- You are the most important person in managing your diabetes. Don't be afraid to speak up for your health.
- Be aware of things like your blood sugar levels (A1c), blood pressure, and cholesterol.
- When you go to see the doctor, write down your questions in a notebook and come prepared. If possible, take someone you trust with you.
- Talk openly with your doctor about any financial or practical issues you may face during treatment (such as the cost of medications, lack of time).
- Maintain good communication with your medical team (doctors, nurses). You are the leader of that team.
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