citizensmemorial.com 13 There’s a lot to consider when it comes to managing diabetes—from making the right lifestyle choices to scheduling your tests. By remembering the ABCs below, you can help keep your disease under control and live a full, healthy life. The A1C test. The hemoglobin A1C test, or A1C, is an essential tool for tracking your diabetes and how well you’re managing it. The test tells you your average blood glucose (sugar) level over the last two to three months. By getting this test at least twice a year, you can make sure you’re controlling your blood glucose to avoid complications from diabetes. Try to keep your number below 7. Blood pressure. Many people with diabetes also have high blood pressure, which makes the heart work extra hard. That’s why when you have diabetes, it’s especially important to get your blood pressure taken every time you go to the doctor. Discuss your results with your doctor to set a blood pressure goal and keep track of your progress. Cholesterol. Check in with your doctor at least yearly on your cholesterol numbers, including total cholesterol, LDL and triglyceride levels. Pay special attention to your LDL, or bad cholesterol, which can build up and block your blood vessels. If your cholesterol result isn’t where it should be, make a plan with your doctor to try to remedy it. For example, you can eat more heart-healthy foods and exercise more often. DIABETES CARE Know the ABCs of diabetes A memory trick to help keep the disease in check B C Heather Corn, M.D. Hannah Ashlock, PA-C CALLTHE CMH ENDOCRINOLOGY CENTER at 417328-7000 for more information or to schedule an appointment. Smoking. If you smoke, do your best to quit. Smoking doubles your risk of heart disease when you have diabetes. Smoking also raises your blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol levels. If you need help quitting, talk to your doctor. Sources: American College of Cardiology; American Heart Association; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute S MEET OURMEDICAL STAFF Heather Corn, M.D., and Hannah Ashlock, PA-C, with CMH Endocrinology Center in Bolivar, are experts in diagnosing and treating patients with endocrine system issues, including diabetes. They offer care and treatment for reproductive hormone imbalance, pituitary and adrenal disorders, thyroid and parathyroid disorders, advanced diabetes, obesity, osteoporosis, and other disorders of the endocrine system.
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