Warning: Creating default object from empty value in /home/typefreediabetes.com/public_html/wp-content/themes/salient/nectar/redux-framework/ReduxCore/inc/class.redux_filesystem.php on line 29
Diabetes Treatments – TypefreeDiabates
0
0
was successfully added to your cart.

Cart

Category

Diabetes Treatments

Aug 06
0

Diabetic Supplies Online | Diabetes Medical Supplies & Products – Blood Glucose Test Strips & Meters

By | Wound Care Protocols | No Comments

Wound Care Protocols

Wound Care Protocols

Diabetics are not only more susceptible to developing wounds, but those wounds often become infected unless they are treated immediately. Because of common Diabetes complications, such as increased blood sugar levels, nerve damage, and poor circulation, many wounds do not receive the blood, nutrients, and attention that they need in order to heal properly.

While Diabetics can develop serious wounds anywhere, they tend to develop serious wounds on the feet, especially, because of decreased sensitivity in the extremities. Even small wounds, such as blisters, can become huge complications if they go unnoticed and untreated. Early detection and treatment is critical in wound care in order to avoid infection and spreading of the wound.

What Makes Wounds Worse
¥ Poor blood circulation
¥ Dry skin
¥ Elevated blood sugar levels
¥ Bacteria and other dirt
¥ Not treating the wounds immediately
¥ Poor nutrition and lack of essential vitamins and minerals in the diet

If you have a wound or are concerned about getting an infection, there are some simple steps that you should take in order to avoid getting an infection. Those steps include:

¥ Avoid having dry skin that may crack or chap.
¥ Monitor your blood glucose level closely. Having high blood sugar will feed bacteria and other infections.
¥ Always check your footwear for sharp objects before putting on your shoes
¥ Check your feet daily for sores, blisters, and cuts.
¥ Treat cuts and wounds immediately with antibiotic soap, alcohol, and clean water
¥ Monitor wounds closely. If puss, unusual odors, or black skin develops in the area of the wound, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
¥ Pay close attention to your nutrition. Be sure to include plenty of vitamins and minerals in your diet.
¥ Maintain low blood sugar levels through medication, exercise and nutrition.
¥ Stretch and massage the area around the wound in order to improve circulation.
¥ Dress the wound appropriately. Ask your doctor for recommendations if the wound is deep or unusual.
¥ Drink plenty of water in order to hydrate your skin and tissue.

If you are concerned about an existing wound or are worried that you may develop a serious wound, contact your doctor immediately. Paying close attention to your body can help to avert serious complications that are associated with Diabetes.

First Ever Study Predicts Outcome For LimbThreatening Infections In Diabetes

Researchers from the University of Washington, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, Merck Laboratories, and Mount Sinai School of Medicine have released a study suggesting that specific laboratory and clinical tests can predict outcome of antibiotic therapy for infections in persons with diabetes.

Read more at Medical News.

For more breaking news on Diabetes, click on News Articles.



Read More
Aug 06
0

Type 2 Diabetes Medications – TypeFree Diabetes

By | Type 2 Diabetes Medications | No Comments

Type 2 Diabetes Medications

Type 2 Diabetes Medications

How Oral Medicines Help Manage Type 2 Diabetes

People diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes have many medicines available to help control their blood sugar levels. These drugs fall into 3 methods of reducing blood sugar levels:  Read more..

Metformin For Type 2 Diabetes

People with Type 2 diabetes have many different drugs on the market that help to control their blood sugar levels. Metformin (Glucophage) is a very popular oral medication for Type 2 diabetes and pre-diabetes. Metformin controls high blood sugar levels, which helps to prevent nerve damage, kidney damage, blindness, circulatory problems, and sexual function problems (including incontinence).  Read more..

Tips for Traveling with Diabetes Medicines

It’s nearly summer, time for a trip to the beach, the mountains, or beyond. Wherever you’re vacationing, some advance planning will help ensure you have a healthy trip. Before you travel, here is what to do:  Read more…

D-phenylalanine – A Type 2 Diabetes MedicationD-phenylalanine (dee-fen-nel-AL-ah-neen) derivatives are a new form of oral Type 2 diabetes medication used to treat Type 2 diabetes. Currently, there is just one D-phenylalanine derivative drug called Starlix (nateglinide), which should be taken directly before or after each meal. Read more..

Meglitinides- A Type 2 Diabetes Medication(meh-GLIT-in-ides) are type 2 oral medications that stimulate the pancreas to make more insulin. They are commonly used to help stop rapid increased in blood sugar levels right after meals. Two examples of Meglitinides (Starlix) are nateglinides and repaglinides (Prandin). Read more..
Thiazolidinediones – A Type 2 Diabetes Medication

Thiazolidinediones (THIGH-ah-ZO-li-deen-DYE-owns) is a Type 2 diabetes oral medication that makes the body more sensitive to its own insulin. However, they do not cause the pancreas to produce more insulin.This class of oral medication has some major side effects especially swelling and heart failure.  Read more..

FDA Issues Its Strictest Health Warning on Two Diabetes Drugs

The government’s top drug regulator told a packed House hearing Wednesday that the agency had recently decided to put the agency’s most serious safety warning on two diabetes drugs  Avandia and Actos  whose health risks have become a focus of congressional concern.

For the complete story, click on “The Tech Online Edition.” There is much more news on diabetes disease,read Diabetes in the News

Health Canada Confirms Possible Ties Between Avandia, Heart Problems

HEALTH Canada says the deaths of several Canadians could be linked to the popular Type 2 diabetes drug Avandia, the Free Press has learned.

Last week, a report in the New England Journal of Medicine linked Avandia to a greater chance of heart attack and possibly death.

Initially, Health Canada told the media that 28 Canadians who were taking Avandia suffered heart attacks since 2000. They didn’t say if any of the heart attacks were fatal.

But after the Free Press looked into Health Canada’s adverse-reaction database, spokeswoman Renee Bergeron confirmed 19 people have died from heart attacks or heart failure while taking Avandia.

Read the complete story here:Winnipeg Free Press. For more news on diabetes disease, read Diabetes in the News.

back to top..

Alpha-glucosidase inhibitors – A Type 2 Diabetes Medication

Alpha-glucosidase inhibitors (AL-fa gloo-KOS-ih-dayss in-HIB-it-ers) are oral Type 2 diabetes medications that are used in Type 2 Diabetics to lower the blood sugar level by slowing the absorption of carbohydrates from food. 

Read more..

Biguanides – A Type 2 Diabetes MedicationBiguanides (by-GWAN-ides) are a class of oral Type 2 diabetes medications that reduce the amount of glucose the liver  releases between meals. Biguanide medications include metformin.  Some of the brands are:  Read more..

Sulfonylureas – A Type 2 Diabetes Medication

These Type 2 diabetes pills signals the pancreas to release more insulin. However, when not used properly, sulfonylureas can cause very low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). Read more..



Read More
Aug 06
0

Yoga Helps Reduce Diabetes Complications – TypeFree Diabetes

By | Treatments for Type 2 Diabetes | No Comments

Treatments for Type 2 Diabetes

Yoga Helps Reduce Diabetes Complications

Yoga has been widely studied as a means to help reduce (and sometimes eliminate) many diabetes complications. Some of these side effects include reduced blood flow, kidney failure, urinary failure, and blindness. Many researchers believe that practicing yoga regularly can help to stimulate blood circulation and massage internal organs, which can provide long-lasting physical benefits to individuals suffering from diabetes.

Additionally, exercise (including yoga) can have long-term benefits for diabetics. Physical exercise has been proven to reduce stress, decrease body fat, stimulate organ functions and blood circulation, and decrease blood sugar levels.

Yoga and other forms of exercise have been shown to have a positive impact on every type of diabetes, including Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes.

3 Yoga Postures

Yoga is an ancient practice of bending, stretching, and challenging the body to hold certain postures for a prolonged period of time. There are several different types of yoga, including Bikram (hot yoga), Hatha yoga (body balancing), and Ashtanga(rigorous) yoga. Each type of yoga provides different benefits and postures. However, all yoga styles are similar in that they massage the organs, develop muscles, and increase blood flow and oxygen levels throughout the body.

Yoga has clear physical and mental benefits for Diabetics. Some yogis (yoga teachers) even believe that practicing yoga regularly can reverse many Diabetic symptoms, including increased hunger, weight gain, poor circulation, and stress.

There are some easy-to-practice yoga postures that are especially beneficial to Diabetics. These postures massage the pancreas and glands, which help to regulate blood sugar levels. They also help to stretch the abdomen and spine. If you have just a few minutes a day to dedicate to yoga practice, check out these postures:

Yoga Pose Half Moon ¥ Half-moon Ð stand with your feet touching at the heels and toes. Reach your arms over your head sideways and link fingers. Extend the index finger of each hand, as if pointing to the ceiling. Slowly bend towards one side of the room from your belly button to the tips of your fingers. As you deepen the bend, push your hips in the opposite direction of the bend. Be sure to keep your arms and legs straight while pushing your fingers and heels in opposite directions.

¥ Cobra Ð lay on the floor, belly-down. Place the palms of your hands flat on the floor underneath your shoulders. Make sure your arms are parallel from the shoulder to the elbow and elbow to the wrists. Look to the ceiling, stretching your eyes and head upward. Slowly lift your torso off of the ground so that it meets the ground at your belly button. Remember to breathe deeply in this pose to strengthen and lengthen the spine and torso.

Yoga Pose Bow

¥ Bow Ð with your belly on the floor and eyes stretched towards the ceiling, reach both arms out to your sides. Bend your legs at the knees towards the ceiling and reach down to grab your heals from the outside of your legs. Push your legs towards the ceiling, lifting your torso as well. Rock towards your chest as much as possible. Try to hold this pose as long as you can.

One of the many benefits of yoga is weight loss as you develop your muscle mass and burn fat.
 typefreediabetes.com recommends using an electronic fat analyzer to track you fat-burning progress.

Bathroom Body Fat Scale



Read More
Aug 06
0

How to Choose Diabetes Shoes – TypeFree Diabetes

By | How to Choose Diabetes Shoes | No Comments

How to Choose Diabetes Shoes

How to Choose Diabetes Shoes

What You Need to Know About Diabetic Shoes

Many people with diabetes benefit by using specially-crafted diabetes shoes, especially if they suffer from a loss of sensation in their feet. Diabetes shoes are designed to be soft, comfortable, and custom fitted to the feet, which many diabetics may not feel after they lose foot sensation.

Why Use a Diabetes Shoe?

Many diabetics develop a condition called peripheral neuropathy. When someone has peripheral neuropathy, they lose feeling in their extremities, including their feet, legs, and even hands. Because they suffer from a loss of feeling in these extremities, they can be unaware when their shoes rub, cut, or squeeze their feet. In such a situation, the diabetic person may unknowingly be injured by ill-fitting shoes.

What Makes a Diabetes Shoe Different?

A diabetes shoe tends to provide more room for the foot and for orthotic inserts than a normal shoe. Diabetes shoes tend to be wider and deeper than most other shoes and can be fitted with comfortable insoles.

In most cases, diabetics will have shoes custom made in order to ensure that the shoe distributes weight properly and fits the foot perfectly. Having a custom-made shoe can prevent rubbing, chafing, and loss of circulation to the foot that a person with diabetes may not notice because of the loss of sensation in the foot.

In addition to being specialty-crafted for the diabetic individual, diabetes shoes also tend to be manufactured with breathable fibers, such as fabric or netting, so that the foot has healthy air circulation. Good air circulation allows the skin to breathe, which helps to prevent pressure ulcers and increases blood circulation.

How to Find a Good Pair of Diabetes Shoes
  • Look for fabrics that “breathe,” such as canvas or even sandals. Breathable fibers will prevent your foot from sweating, swelling, and chafing.
  • The shoes should be deep enough to accommodate an orthotic insert and wide enough to prevent pinching.
  • Avoid shoes that have interior seams, which may rub against the skin and cause chafing.
  • The toe box in the front of the shoe needs to be roomy enough so that you can wiggle your toes.
  • Elastic in the shoes may also help to prevent the shoe from sliding around on the foot while holding it comfortably in place.

For the Finest Selection of Comfortable and Fashionable Diabetes Shoes

Woman's Diabetes Dress Shoe

Women’s Dress  Shoe                                                                                                                          Shoe

2 Men's Diabetes Athletic Shoes

Click Here For the Complete Assortment

Diabetes Care – Giving Your Feet a Hand

People with diabetes are more prone to foot pain due to an increased risk of damage to nerves and blood vessels. You can help prevent these problems with the following tips:

  • Wash your feet in warm water with mild soap every day, but don‘t soak them. Dry them well, especially between your toes.
  • Check your feet every day for cuts, sores, blisters, redness, calluses, or any other problem. Call your doctor if Check Your Feet Dailyhealing doesn’t start after one day.
  • If your skin is dry, rub lotion on your feet after you wash and dry them. Do not put lotion between your toes.
  • Gently file corns and calluses with an emery board or pumice stone (move it in only one direction). Do this after your bath or shower, when the skin is soft.
  • Trim your toenails once a week or when needed. Cut them with a nail clipper straight across, then smooth the edges with an emery board. If you can’t see or reach them, ask a family member or your health care team for help.
  • Always wear slippers or shoes to protect your feet from injuries. Don’t wear sandals and don’t walk barefoot, even around the house.
  • Always wear socks or stockings to avoid blisters. Choose a pair that fits your feet well and has soft elastic.
  • Wear shoes that fit well. Shop for shoes at the end of the day when your feet are bigger. Break in shoes slowly. Wear them 1 to 2 hours each day for the first few weeks.
These Shoes Are Made for Walking

If you’re starting a walking program (see Type Free eNewsletter #3), get off on the right foot by buying a pair of walking shoes that fit properly. Here’s how:

  • Bring your walking socks when you shop for shoes.
  • Look for shoes that are wide enough that your toes can move freely. There should be about a half inch between your toes and the end of the shoe. Your heel should not slip, and the shoe should not pinch or bind, especially across the arch or ball of your foot.
  • Walking shoes should have a relatively flat heel and should be flexible enough that you can bend and twist them.
  • Pick a shoe that is lightweight and breathable.
  • Make sure shoes feel great when you put them on. Walking shoes shouldn’t have to be worn in.

  NDEP

NDEP

Here is a podcast offering tips on foot care to prevent complications, such as foot ulcers and amputation: Healthy Feet are Happy Feet. This podcast is 2 minutes and 23 seconds long. It’s brought to you compliments of the Center for Disease Control and Prevention and the National Diabetes Education Program.



Read More
Aug 06
0

How to Choose a Diabetes Medical Team – TypeFree Diabetes

By | How to Choose a Diabetes Medical Team | No Comments

How to Choose a Diabetes Medical Team

How to Choose a Diabetes Medical Team

How to Find an Effective Medical Team Member

The process of finding the right health care professional to help you manage your Type 2 diabetes can take awhile – Take your time. Not only do you want to find a professional that takes the time to listen to your concerns while you’re in his or her office, but it’s also important to find a professional that is available if you call the office with a concern or one that will at least return your call within a reasonable amount of time.


Diabetic and Doctor

The primary factor to focus on when selecting a doctor is to trust your intuition. Ask yourself these questions:

  • Do you feel connected with the doctor?
  • Does the doctor seem to be available when you need him or her?
  • Does he or she take time to answer your questions without rushing you out the door?
  • Does the doctor try to connect one medical issue with another so that you can have a complete understanding of your condition?

Here are some other factors to keep in mind when selecting the right medical team member:

Mental and Physical Understanding

Diabetes may be a physical issue, but diabetics also need to pay attention to their mental health.

It is important to establish a relationship with a doctor who is willing to take time to look you in the eye and listen to your concerns. When it comes to your health, it is not worth it to settle for a doctor that focuses more on the paper than the person (even when the paper is important!)

Personal Talks – The Sex Talk
As a Diabetic, chances are good that you will need to speak with your doctor about very personal issues, including matters related to erectile dysfunction and menopause. Therefore, you should feel comfortable addressing these health issues with your medical practitioner. Your doctor should also ask you questions about these very personal aspects of your life.

If you have never been comfortable discussing issues related to sex and sexuality with your doctor, remember that he or she is in the profession of helping people achieve optimal health in all areas of their lives, including their sexual relationships. You doctor will not judge you based on the confidential information you share. And, more than likely, your doctor has had other patients that have the same health concerns.

Alerting People to Your Condition

It is important for you to alert your family members, co-workers, and friends to your diabetes so that they can be prepared in the event that something happens to you. Often, diabetics will even wear a wristband so that if they fall into a coma, get into a car accident, or need some form of medical attention, medical professionals will be alerted to the fact that the diabetic may need special treatment or attention.

Depending on the type of medications a diabetic is taking, a doctor may treat a diabetic patient differently. Therefore, make sure that people close to you know what type of diabetes medications you take. One always hopes that one stays healthy and accident-free. However, in the event that something unfortunate should happen to you, informing the doctors of your condition is the fastest way to help you receive the right treatment.

Type 1 diabetics who are reliant upon insulin in order to regulate their bodies need to be especially careful about making sure that people are aware of their condition. In the event that a Type 1 diabetic loses consciousness for any reason, the diabetic may need an insulin or glucose injection immediately to avoid long-term damage.

Many diabetics may also have low blood sugar levels after they take their medication. At times, these blood sugar levels drop so low that the diabetic becomes faint or loses consciousness. The diabetics need to have a glucose injection if they lose consciousness. However, if people are aware of the condition, they may be able to help the illdiabetic stay conscious by giving him or her juice or candy in order to quickly raise the blood sugar level.

Click for more information about the Effects of Diabetes.




Read More
Aug 06
0

Diabetic Supplies Online | Diabetes Medical Supplies & Products – Blood Glucose Test Strips & Meters

By | Emergency Glucose Kit | No Comments

Emergency Glucose Kit

Emergency Glucose/Glucagon Kits

arrow Blood Sugar Testing

All Diabetics that use insulin, especially children with Type 1 Diabetes, should have access to an emergency glucose kit, also known as a Glucagon Emergency Kit. When a Diabetic misses a dose of insulin, takes too much insulin, or, for any reason, has a very low blood sugar level, the person can lose consciousness and go into shock.

Important: Diabetics should always tell people around them, such as family members and co-workers, of their condition. Those family members and coworkers should always know where the Glucagon Emergency Kit is just in case the Diabetic loses consciousness and cannot inject him or herself.

How it Works
A glucagon kit is similar in appearance and use to an insulin kit, in that there is a needle and a vial of medication. However, instead of injecting insulin, a person experiencing low blood sugar should be injected with glucagons. Often, the person will be unconscious, so someone will have to inject him or her with the glucagon before he or she goes into coma.

There are injection preparation instructions imprinted onto the cases of emergency glucagon kits so that the process is simple even for someone injecting a patient for the first time. It is best to inject a patient in a large muscle, such as the thigh or buttocks, because of the size of the needle. Keep in mind is that children should only be given about half of the syringe (1/2 cc) while adults should take the whole syringe (1cc).

Non-Insulin Dependent Diabetics
Type 2 Diabetics and pre-diabetics may also face low blood sugar levels that cause them to require emergency treatment. In most cases, a simple glass of juice or piece of candy can help to restore the blood sugar to safe levels. Therefore, it is always a good idea to keep candy or a juice box on hand, even when you are not insulin-dependent.

Click here to learn more about the symptoms of low blood sugar so that you can identify the condition if it occurs in yourself or in a loved one.




Read More
Aug 06
0

Diabetic Supplies Online | Diabetes Medical Supplies & Products – Blood Glucose Test Strips & Meters

By | Diabetes Self-Management Journal | No Comments

Diabetes Self-Management Journal

Diabetes Care Journal

Self-Management Journal

Members Must Prepare Before Visiting Doctors’ Offices

To get the most value from visiting your doctor, use a Self-Management Journal to help you write down numerical results, and words to describe your successes and difficulties in meeting your goals. Just print the selected forms and begin writing your information about:

1. Lab tests (Blood, and urine)
2. Physician examinations (eye inspection, blood pressure, etc.
3. Glucose management (metering and medication)
4. Physical activity, and changes in nutrition

You Must Leave Your Doctor’s Office With a Greater Understanding of Your Condition & How to Improve It

These forms will also help you prepare questions and answers before visiting your medical team. Your medical team includes all of the health care providers, i.e. primary care physician, specialists like endocrinologist, podiatrist, ophthalmologist, etc; Certified Diabetic Educators, nutritionists, etc.

Go to our Diabetes Dictionary to read about medical terms you may not be familiar with (then click backspace to return here).

Speak With Your health consultants and knowledgeable individuals in our ‘Forum’ to learn about your health care rights. For example, how many visits to your medical team are you entitled to? How do you ask for your lab results and other records?

First, think about questions the doctor will ask and how you will answer them. Most importantly, KEEP YOUR APPOINTMENT.

1. Have you met your goals? Be sure to mention your successes in:

a. Improved nutrition
b. Increased physical activity
c. Stopped smoking
d. Reduced alcohol consumption

2. What has prevented your from reaching your goals? Honestly discuss personal, even if embarrassing topics:

a. Side effects
b. High cost
c. Not enough time
d. Your fears
e. Over the counter drugs you are taking
f. Herbal supplements

3. What complications have you experienced?

a. Recurring low blood sugar
b. Weight gain
c. Increased blood pressure
d. Other



Read More
Aug 06
0

Diabetes and Lifestyle Change – TypeFree Diabetes

By | Diabetes and Lifestyle Change | No Comments

Diabetes and Lifestyle Change

Diabetes and Lifestyle Change

When it comes to staying healthy, doctors of people with diabetes will repeatedly tell them that health is a numbers game; there are certain numbers that all healthy people should remember. Newly diagnosed Type 2 diabetics must change parts of their lifestyle to control their blood sugar and get better.  Here are some tips to help you keep an eye on your overall health – whilesticking with the numbers.

[1] 5 Fruits and Veggies

Everyone should remember to eat a total of five fruits and veggies each day. You can mix and match your fruits as much asVegetable Tray you like as long as you reach five by the end of the day.  Having a hard time making sure you get your five in? Here are some ways you can sneak in an extra serving or two:

  • Add a small handful or raisins or banana to your cereal in the morning.
  • Drink a smoothie instead of a soda (for as many as four fruits and veggies).
  • Slice a tomato on top of your turkey sandwich.
  • Stir mushrooms and onions into your breakfast omelet.
  • Reach for an apple rather than a granola bar for your afternoon snack.
  • Have a glass of 100% fruit juice before work or after a workout.
  • Keep dried fruit in your desk or car to satisfy that mid-day sweet tooth.

[2]  Hours of Sleep

Studies prove time and again that every needs about eight hours of sleep each night. However, most people do not allow themselves the luxury of the full recommended dosage of R & R. By going to bed at a reasonable hour (when you are tired) and sleeping a full eight hours, your body will feel rested, restored, and will ultimately function at a higher level than if it were deprived of sleep.

If you are having difficulty sleeping, take a look at your overall stress level, diet, exercise routine, and sleeping habits. Small changes can lead to big results. Speak to your doctor if you have trouble sleeping for a prolonged amount of time.

[3] 30 Minutes of Exercise

Whether you are Diabetic or not, it is important to get at least 30 minutes of exercise each day. These 30 minutes do not have to occur at the same time. Often, busy people may only be able to sneak in 15 minutes here or there. However, it is important that you set aside enough time each day to get your heart rate up, your blood pumping, and your muscles moving.

Having a hard time sneaking in 30 minutes? Here are some quick tips that everyone can do:

  • Take two 15 minute walks (15 minutes is roughly one mile).
  • Clean the house vigorously (try to work up a sweat).
  • Do floor exercises for 10 minutes three times a day (sit-ups, push-ups, calf raises, stair climbing).
  • Walk during lunch or walk to lunch.
  • Take a bike to visit a friend or run to the store rather than a car.
  • Make exercise a family event by taking the kids to the park, a walking trail, gym, or track.


    • [4] 8 Glasses of Water

    In order for your body to function properly, your organs need to be well-hydrated. Research shows that in order to maintain hydration, people should drink anywhere from three to eight glasses of water each day.Water can be flavored water, including some juices, as well. Also, may fruits and veggies contain large amounts of water that can help the body stay hydrated.

    Find Shoes For Diabetes Foot Pain

    Diabetic Men's Athletic Shoes

    Diabetic Women's Athletic Shoes

    Read More
    Aug 06
    0

    Diabetes Dental Care at Home | Diabetic Supplies Online

    By | Diabetes Dental Care at Home | No Comments

    Diabetes Dental Care at Home

    Diabetes Dental Care at Home

    Diabetes Dental Care At Home

    Diabetics are at risk of having dental problems because of their elevated blood sugar levels. High blood sugar levels add stress to the blood vessels and tissues of the body, causing them to weaken and sometimes even decay. High blood sugar levels also supply bacteria in the mouth with nourishment in the form of sugars and starches. Common complications that occur in the mouth include: less sensitive taste buds, weakened teeth, and infection in the gums.

    Fighting off dental complications often makes Diabetes even harder to control. For example, if you have a gum infection, then the body will work overtime to fight the infection. Your blood sugar level and blood pressure level will rise as your body tries to fight the infection, causing trouble not only for your mouth, but also for the rest of your system.

    Additionally, Diabetics often have less sensitive taste buds, which may cause them to seek foods that have a high potency of sugar so that they can taste the sugar. The desensitization of the taste buds may not even be noticeable.

    Dental complications associated with Diabetes include:
    ¥ Increased risk of gum disease
    ¥ Development of plaque Ð or the build-up of bacteria, saliva and food particles around the teeth
    ¥ Cavities
    ¥ Tooth decay or loss
    ¥ Dry mouth
    ¥ Oral infections
    ¥ Diminished sensitivity to sweets
    Tips to Control Dental Complications
    ¥ Visit your dentist every six months
    ¥ Tell your dentist that you have Diabetes
    ¥ Brush your teeth for 3 minutes twice a day
    ¥ Brush your tongue
    ¥ Floss daily
    ¥ Keep an eye out for signs of gum disease, such as swelling, bleeding and redness

    Talk to your doctor or dentist immediately if you think you may be developing dental complications associated with Diabetes. Early treatment will help to make treatment more effective and may help to prevent the onset of related conditions.

    Electric Tooth Brushes: Find the Right Brush

    It is important for all people – especially those with Diabetes – to maintain proper oral health care by brushing regularly. According to most dentists, an electric tooth brush is just as affective, if not more so, than a manual tooth brush.

    Using an electric tooth brush offers many benefits, including saved time. If you use an electric tooth brush properly, you’ll remove more plaque in less time than when brushing with a manual toothbrush. Plus, electric tooth brushes make brushing easy for those folks that have arthritis or other mobility problems.

    Here’s what you need to consider in order to find the right electric toothbrush for you:

    Price


    Electric toothbrushes can vary a great deal in price, depending on the level of functionality and quality of the toothbrush. For example, a long-lasting and semi-professional toothbrush, such as the Sonicare Essence Toothbrush, will cost you right around $100. However, the Oral-B Vitality Dual Action Toothbrush will only cost you about $30. The difference in the two brands is simple: the Sonicare brush might last longer and provide more brushing options for you, however, the Oral-B toothbrush might suit your short-term budget more, especially if you are just trying electric brushes to see if you like them. Both offer comparable levels of quality.

    Features


    Every electric tooth brush comes with its own set of features. Common features include multiple vibration rates to suit your sensitivity level, brushing timers to make sure you brush for at least two minutes a day, and even battery life. Make sure that you are familiar with what options might be available to you when looking for electric tooth brushes.

    You might also want to consider an oral care unit that comes complete with a water pick system, such as the WaterPik Personal Dental System, which helps you maintain healthy teeth and gums using low-pressure water streaming technology.

    Type


    When it comes to electric toothbrushes, there are many variations in terms of the type you can choose. For example, there are electric toothbrushes that will oscillate and vibrate, there are sonic electric brushes, and there are water jet systems. Each of these electric options offers different results.

    For example, a water jet system will use a forceful jet of water to help remove plaque and build-up from the surface of your teeth and gums. Note: This water-based system may not remove plaque from deep within the pores of your teeth and should always be followed by brushing so that active ingredients in toothpaste can help to clean and protect your teeth.

    Oscillating toothbrushes and sonic toothbrushes are quite similar in terms of results. However, some dentists believe that oscillating tooth brushes are more effective than sonic toothbrushes at removing plaque in a shorter amount of time.



    Read More