(ARA) - There are currently 17 million Americans with diabetes and each year about 1 million new cases are diagnosed. Diabetes affects almost every part of the patient's body, sometimes in ways that might be unexpected. Possible complications include heart disease and stroke, eye disease that can lead to vision problems or even going blind; nerve damage that can cause hands and feet to feel numb, leading to loss of a foot or a leg; kidney problems; and gum disease and loss of teeth.

"Because diabetes affects so many aspects of a patient's life and health, the best way to deal with it is to take the team approach," says Gary Janson of American Medical Supplies, a Florida-based diabetic supplies company that serves clients throughout the United States. The team approach involves not only primary care providers such as doctors, nurse practitioners and physician assistants, but other health care professionals as well. Members of your team might include dietitians, eye and foot doctors, dentists and mental health and social workers. Your family and friends are also an important part of your team.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, studies show that keeping blood glucose close to normal helps prevent or delay some diabetes problems. Also, through careful control, at least half of the expected eye disease, kidney disease and nerve damage can be prevented or slowed. "When you take control of your health care needs, you'll feel better and have the information you need to deal with complications from diabetes," says Janson.

* Your first line of defense

Once you are diagnosed with diabetes, you should see your doctor every three to six months. Bring all your medicines to each visit, as well as the results of your blood glucose tests. Write out a list of questions to ask the doctor so you don't forget anything.

* Eat healthy and exercise

Be sure you understand how diet affects diabetes. Your doctor may refer you to a nutritionist for help putting a dietary plan together. Strive for five to nine servings a day of fruits and vegetables and include fish, lean meats, dry beans, whole grains and low-fat or skim milk and cheese. Stay away from foods that are high in fat and salt. Find ways to incorporate daily exercise into your routine as well.

* Take good care of your teeth, eyes and feet

Diabetes can complicate dental problems, so be conscientious about brushing and flossing to keep your mouth, teeth or gums in good shape. See your dentist for regular checkups. Poor circulation can exacerbate foot wounds, so check your feet every day for cuts, blisters, red spots and swelling. Contact your primary care doctor or your podiatrist if you have wounds that won't heal. Between 40 and 45 percent of Americans diagnosed with diabetes have some stage of diabetic retinopathy, which can lead to loss of vision; your doctor can recommend treatment to help prevent its progression. A comprehensive dilated eye exam is needed to diagnose the condition.

* Follow the testing routine established by your doctor and use the right supplies

The cost of testing supplies can exceed $1,200 a year for someone who tests their blood sugar three times a day. Find out what your insurance covers -- Medicare covers diabetes testing supplies, as do most third party insurers, so there is no reason not to test. For added convenience, companies such as American Medical Supplies specialize in taking the hassle and expense out of ordering supplies. For patients who qualify, the company handles insurance and Medicare paperwork and delivers the prescribed supplies so patients always have the necessary tools to manage their health.

Working with your team can help you take control of your health and your life now and for the future. For more information, or to register with American Medical Supplies, call (800) 856-7999 or visit www.AmericanDiabetic.com.

Courtesy of ARA Content

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Courtesy of ARA Content