Winter can be a particularly challenging time if you are living with type 2 diabetes. The following information will help you to stay well this Winter.
Diabetes UK is a leading charity with a wealth of helpful information for people living with diabetes. This includes:
Diabetes UK also run a free patient helpline that can answer any questions you may have and offer advice on staying well, including through physical activity.
You must have regular foot checks as diabetes can cause foot problems that can become serious if left untreated.
The Royal College of Podiatry (RCPod) lists the following simple self-care measures:
More information is available on the RCPod website.
If you develop a foot ulcer please seek face to face medical attention immediately, do not delay.
People living with type 2 diabetes and their carers can benefit from free, NHS online health living education. This short course is broken down into sections with helpful videos and other resources.
It is not uncommon for people living with diabetes to also experience high blood pressure. The British Heart Foundation provide help and support on their Managing your blood pressure at home web hub.
If you are treated with tablets and / or injections e.g. insulin, please download and read this leaflet to know what to do if you become unwell. You may also find this advice on sick day rules from Diabetes UK useful.
If you are prescribed steroid treatment for conditions that you may have alongside type 2 diabetes – such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or Covid-19 – it is more important than ever that you control your glucose levels. The healthcare professional who prescribed the steroid treatment will give you specific advice. This leaflet on managing type 2 diabetes and steroid treatment provides further information.