Today marks World Diabetes Day, and we’re taking the opportunity to recognise all those who live with diabetes, and to spread awareness about the chronic condition that impacts about one in 10 people globally.
In Australia, the past 20 years have seen a 220% increase in the numbers of people living with diabetes nationally, making it one of the most significant health challenges in the country. Despite its prevalence however, it is possible to manage diabetes effectively, and to lead a happy, wholesome life.
What is diabetes?
Diabetes mellitus, more commonly known as diabetes, is a condition characterised by high levels of sugar (glucose) in the bloodstream. It starts with insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas to maintain normal blood glucose levels. We need insulin to break down glucose (we consume from food) and deliver the glucose to our cells, muscles and organs to ensure our bodies have enough energy to maintain our daily functions. Diabetes occurs when our bodies struggle to make sufficient amounts of insulin, or are unable to utilise insulin effectively.
There are two types of diabetes which both impact the way the body regulates glucose. Type 1 diabetes generally develops early in life and is the result of an autoimmune reaction. Type 2 diabetes develops later in life and is often correlated with lifestyle factors, such as diet, a lack of physical activity, and excess weight.
If not managed optimally, both types of diabetes can increase the risk of several serious health complications, including heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, poor vision, and nerve damage (due to poor blood circulation).
Common symptoms of diabetes may include:
- Increased thirst or hunger (more than usual)
- Passing more urine
- Increased tiredness or lethargy
- Dizziness and frequent headaches
- Leg cramps
- Poor or slow wound healing and skin infections
- Blurred vision
- Unexplained weight loss
- Gradual weight gain (for type 2 diabetes)
If you are concerned about any of the above symptoms, it is important to consult your health professional to confirm a diagnosis. Symptoms that appear suddenly (in type 1 and some cases of type 2 diabetes) can be life-threatening and should be addressed immediately.
Managing and living with diabetes
Being diagnosed with either type 1 or type 2 diabetes can be emotional and overwhelming. However, with support from healthcare professionals and guidance about medication, treatment options, and nutrition, it is possible to live your best life with the condition.
If you or someone you know is living with diabetes, support is available from:
- General practitioners
- Pharmacists
- Credentialled diabetes educators
- Dieticians
- Endocrinologists
- Podiatrists
- Exercise physiotherapists or physiotherapists
- Optometrists and ophthalmologists
- Dentists
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health workers
How can pharmacists help support your diabetes management?
Your local WholeLife Pharmacy & Healthfoods is also your local National Diabetes Services Scheme (NDSS) access point, where you can access subsidised products essential for your diabetes care, and specific to your individual needs, such as blood glucose monitoring strips, insulin needles and syringes, and insulin pump consumables.
Your pharmacist and trained pharmacy assistants can also support you with blood glucose monitoring advice and education, device calibration, and can assist with your NDSS application requirements to help you access the subsidy scheme.
Pharmacists are well-trained to give advice on your diabetes medications. You can receive a Diabetes Medication Review, conducted privately with your pharmacist. This government-subsided initiative will help ensure you understand how to take your medications optimally, address any concerns (such as side effects) and assist in the monitoring of your condition to help reduce future complications.
Our pharmacists can also discuss healthier lifestyle choices to help support your diabetes management journey, with our range of health foods. At selected WholeLife pharmacies, you may also discuss supportive therapies with an in-store naturopath or nutritionist.
Diabetes is a chronic illness, but most people living with it manage to adjust and accommodate it in their lives. At WholeLife Pharmacy & Healthfoods, our pharmacists aim to make this easier with our support, professional advice, and assistance for all your health needs. We’re here to help! Be sure to consult your qualified healthcare professionals to get advice and treatment tailored to your individual medical needs.
References
Diabetes Australia (2023). <https://www.diabetesaustralia.com.au/>.
healthdirect (2023), Diabetes, healthdirect. <https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/diabetes>.
National Diabetes Services Scheme (2023), Manage your diabetes confidently with the NDSS, National Diabetes Services Scheme. <https://www.ndss.com.au/>.
Pharmacy Programs Administrator (2022), MedsCheck and Diabetes Medscheck, Pharmacy Programs Administrator. <https://www.ppaonline.com.au/programs/medication-management-programs/medscheck-and-diabetes-medscheck>.