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Let’s Talk Infant Immunizations

Let’s Talk Infant Immunizations

April 23, 2019 By Leave a Comment
Infant Immunizations Week

The last week of April we recognize as National Infant Immunizations Week. We’ve heard a lot of discussion about vaccines in the news lately and want to provide you with the most information possible. Vaccinations are designed to protect not only your child from serious diseases but to protect those with compromised immune systems who are unable to receive the vaccine themselves.

You can find a lot of information online, but your child’s medical provider offers the best information on immunizations. Seeing the same physician or nurse practitioner for your child’s wellness exams and illnesses supplies the provider a complete history and understanding of your child’s health. Together you and your child’s health provider can make the best decisions for your child.

What illnesses do childhood vaccines protect against?

The typical course of vaccines covers fourteen illnesses:

  • Hepatitis A
  • Hepatitis B
  • Diphtheria
  • Hib Disease (Haemophilus influenzae type b)
  • Pertussis
  • Pneumococcal Disease
  • Polio
  • Influenza (flu)
  • Measles
  • Mumps
  • Rotavirus
  • Rubella (German Measles)
  • Tetanus
  • Varicella (Chickenpox)

If you’re like most Americans, you’ve never heard of some of these illnesses and have never known anyone who ever experienced many of them. You can thank vaccines for that protection. Want to know more about each of these diseases? Check out this article which describes each disease and potential complications.

Why do my children receive so many vaccines at one time?

Infant immunizations and childhood vaccines are scheduled to be given when a child is most at risk of developing the disease and when a child’s body is most responsive to developing protection after the vaccine is given. Some vaccines must be given in multiple doses spaced at specific intervals to create and maintain full, optimum protection.

What’s the recommended infant immunizations schedule for children?

The CDC provides informative guides for when you should expect your child to receive specific vaccines. You should also receive an updated vaccination record when your child has new vaccines.

Download the CDC’s guide in English

Download the CDC’s guide in Spanish

Where can I have my child vaccinated?

While some pharmacies offer certain vaccines for adults, it’s important to schedule time with your child’s regular medical provider for their vaccines.

Mantachie Rural Health Care, Inc., offers vaccines to children who are covered under Medicaid or private insurance as well as children who do not have insurance. We’re also part of the federally funded Vaccines for Children program which offers vaccines at no cost to children who might not be vaccinated due to an inability to pay.

If your child has received vaccinations at another clinic, we are able to pull those reports from our office which ensures your child receives the correct vaccines in the right order.

Make an appointment for your child’s next vaccines by calling our office at (662) 282-4226.

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True Cost of Diabetes Reaches Beyond the Patient

April 9, 2019 By Leave a Comment
cost of diabetes

Families of diabetes patients understand too well the true costs associated with the management of this disease. From increased doctor’s visits to the purchase of insulin to specialized shoes, the costs of diabetes reach far into their pockets. Many people without diabetes do not realize how large those costs truly are and how they affect people beyond the patient.

Increasing Costs

A year ago the American Diabetes Association released a report detailing the full cost of diabetes. The results of their research showed the total cost of diabetes to Americans increased by 26% between 2012 and 2017. The report also says “1 in 4 health care dollars in the U.S., and more than half of that expenditure is directly attributable to diabetes.”

Individually, an average of $9,601of a diabetes patient’s medical costs are attributed to diabetes care. That’s an average of $800 a month spent on diabetes care. When you consider the median home mortgage is $1030, that’s a big chunk of a person’s monthly budget.

Government programs such as Medicare, Medicaid or the military cover the majority of these costs. Private insurance picks up another 30%. A small minority of patients have no insurance and spend less on physicians visits and medication, but more on emergency room visits due to complications from the disease.

Indirect Costs

What do these numbers mean if you’re one of the fortunate ones not buying diabetes supplies and paying hospitalization bills? The costs we’ve discussed so far cover the direct costs of managing diabetes. The indirect costs impact anyone who works with or employs someone with diabetes by loss of productivity, increased absenteeism, inability to work and loss of productivity due to early mortality.

Combatting Diabetes

The true cost of diabetes isn’t meant to shame those dealing with the disease on a daily basis. They already understand too well the costs associated with their disease. We know people who aren’t paying those bills have no idea what the true cost of the disease is. Encourage your friends, family, and co-workers managing their diabetes to keep up the good work. They’ll experience good days, bad days and setbacks along the way. Your encouragement keep them going.

The best way to reduce the direct and indirect costs of diabetes is to reduce the number of people dealing with Type 2 diabetes and to help those who are diagnosed to manage their disease.

We can all do more to reduce our risk of Type 2 diabetes by:

  • Losing excess weight (which we all know is easier said than done)
  • Replacing sugary drinks with good ole water (more H2O and fewer sodas will make the first suggestion a little easier)
  • Eating a variety of fruits and vegetables
  • Moving more (start by walking farther across the parking lot to the store)
  • Decreasing stress (moving more can help with this)
  • Sleeping more soundly
  • Giving up smoking
  • Keeping wellness check-ups

Want to learn more about managing diabetes or supporting those around you with the disease? We host a Diabetes Education Class on the third Tuesday of the month in the community room of our dental clinic. Call us to confirm the day and time of our next class.

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Luke Perry’s Stroke and An Increased Risk for Middle-Aged Adults

April 2, 2019 By Leave a Comment
luke perry stroke

In early March middle-aged women across the U.S. mourned the loss of their teenaged heartthrob Luke Perry, who played Dylan McKay on Beverly Hills 90210 which aired from 1990-2000. Perry, 50, suffered a stroke a week prior to his death.

Think 50 is too young for a stroke? Think again.

Strokes in individuals 25-44 and 45 to 64 years old increased between 2000 and 2010 according to a report from the Journal of the American Heart Association. While the majority of strokes still happen in senior adults over the age of 65, those numbers decreased while the number of younger stroke patients rose.

Why are strokes increasing in younger patients?

Strokes fall into two categories: the most common Ischemic strokes and the more lethal Hemorrhagic strokes. Ischemic strokes happen when a clot blocks brain blood flow. Hemorrhagic come about when an artery in the brain leaks or bursts.

Risk factors such as a sedentary lifestyle, obesity, and consumption of processed foods take much of the blame for the increase in strokes in middle-aged adults.

Other reports give credit for the rise in hospitalizations for strokes to a generation more educated about the signs of a stroke. When middle-aged adults recognize a stroke is happening they are more likely to get to a hospital earlier which increases the chances for a positive outcome.

What are the signs of a stroke?

Since knowing the signs of a stroke are linked to faster response and improved results, let’s talk about what you may notice. The National Stroke Association makes it easy to remember: FAST

Face: Ask the person to smile. Does one side of their face droop?

Arms: Ask the person to hold out their arms. Does one arm drift downward?

Speech: Ask the person to repeat a simple phrase. Is their speech slurred or strange?

Time: Act quickly. Call 9-1-1 if the person shows any of these symptoms.

Symptoms associated with strokes include numbness on one side of the body, confusion or trouble speaking, vision trouble, balance or lack of coordination and sudden, severe headache.

How do I reduce my risk of stroke?

Twenty-five percent of people over the age of 25 will experience a stroke within their lifetime. Lifestyle changes are the number one way to decrease your risk of stroke. These changes do not include fad diets, but rather healthy eating habits you can sustain over your lifetime. In addition to eating more whole grains, lean meats and vegetables of many colors, adding consistent exercise to your routine helps combat the risks of stroke.

Keep regular wellness check-ups with your doctor where your blood pressure is monitored and your cholesterol is checked. And know your numbers: blood pressure, BMI, cholesterol and blood sugar.

We learned a lot from Luke Perry and the 90210 cast twenty years ago. Don’t miss this most recent lesson. You’re not too young for a stroke. If you’ve not scheduled your wellness exam for 2019 do it now. It might just save your life.

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Skipping Your Cervical Cancer Screening? Don’t.

March 19, 2019 By Leave a Comment

two women friends, cervical cancer screening pap tests

New recommendations from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force give women the options in their cervical cancer screenings:

The average woman aged 30-65 can be screened by:

  • A Pap test every three years
  • A HPV every five years
  • Or Both tests (collected together) every five years

Previously doctor’s recommended a Pap test every year in these age groups. With the reduced amount of testing, you’d expect more, not fewer, women to be screening. Unfortunately, less than 65% of women are up to date on their screenings.

Why Schedule Your Cervical Cancer Screening?

Short answer? Cervical cancer exhibits no symptoms in its early stages when treatment is most effective. The best way to detect cervical cancer early is through microscopic testing of your cervix lining. In addition to testing for cervical cancer during your visit, your provider will test for STIs, an important yearly testing for women who are sexually active with more than one partner or who practice unsafe sex.

Why Aren’t Women Being Screened?

Researchers have multiple theories. One is that without the need for a yearly Pap test women believe they do not need to see their gynecologist but every three to five years. It’s easier to forget to schedule a cervical cancer screening three years from now than it is to keep a yearly appointment. Also confusion over the guidelines and which test they need may keep some women from being tested at all.

Testing dips after age 26 when many women roll off their parents’ health insurance so they may not be able to pay for the testing. And finally, rumors of how uncomfortable a Pap test is can discourage some women from scheduling theirs.

Don’t Be Chicken, Schedule Your Appointment

We’re making it easier to stay healthy. For $15 you can receive your Pap test in our office.

Not sure when you had your last cervical cancer screening? No problem. Let’s start now. We’ll add your screening dates to your patient record in our office or start a new one if you’ve never been here before. When you forget the last time you had a screening, call us, we’ll be glad to check.

Worried about how uncomfortable screening may be? A Pap or HPV test is one of the least invasive tests you’ll schedule. Having a strep or flu test is much more uncomfortable in our opinion. Plus, our providers and nursing staff have excellent bedside manners. Your screening will be over before you know it.

No insurance or high deductible? No problem. Like we said, $15 covers your screening. If you only need one every three years that’s like 41 cents a month. Your health is worth it.

Ready to schedule your Pap test? Call us now at 662-282-4226.

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Does my child need a sports physical in Mississippi?

March 12, 2019 By Leave a Comment

youth sports physical mississippi, girl playing tennis

Springs sports swung into action weeks ago while summer and fall sports prepare for tryouts, sign-ups, and early practices. In Mississippi, March and April present beautiful months (when it doesn’t rain every day) where you can find a sports competition or practice of just about any sport you like. If your child plans to participate in a new season of sports or a new sport altogether, read on to learn about how a sports physical isn’t just necessary but could save their life.

What’s the difference between a sports physical and an annual wellness exam?

A sports physical focuses on the aspects of your child most likely to be affected by active play. These aspects include your child’s joints, breathing, heart rate, blood pressure, etc. Annual wellness exams cover a broader spectrum of your child’s wellbeing. This exam often includes blood and urine tests, questions about your child’s academic performance, nutrition, sleep habits and behavior.

Each type of exam focuses on a specific aspect of your child’s wellbeing and both are necessary. The Mississippi High School Athletic Association has a Mississippi Athletic Participation Form your school will hand out for your child’s provider to complete. This exam should catch major health issues that might affect your child’s participation. However, it will not catch other problems only discovered through an annual exam.

Annual exams, on the other hand, may not discuss injury prevention for your child’s sports or how to prevent dehydration or overuse. For your child’s healthiest future, ensure your child receives both exams.

Who should complete my child’s sports physical?

Many schools hold physical days on campus. However, others may drive student-athletes off campus to low or no cost physical days. During these events, physicians or nurse practitioners see hundreds of athletes. Your child will receive a quality sports physical at a low cost in a convenient way, making these events very popular. If your child is unable to participate in these events, your regular medical providers can provide the same service at a reasonable fee.

A benefit to having your child’s regular provider perform the sports physical is a continuity of care. That means one provider who knows your child’s medical history can provide care specifically for your child in a less rushed atmosphere. Continuity of care is especially important if your child has an illness that can affect their athletic performance. Some of those illnesses include asthma, allergies to stinging insects, diabetes or other illnesses.

When should my child have a sports physical?

Most schools require a physical every calendar year. As your child grows they will experience different challenges and health risks. A physical each year screens for those changes. We suggest your child complete their physical at least six weeks prior to starting a new activity. If your provider notices a problem and refers your child to a specialist you have time to see the specialist and determine treatment (if needed) before the start of tryouts, practice or games.

School physicals usually begin as students enter the seventh grade. Children participating in sports earlier than this age should also undergo a sports physical to ensure they are performing at their optimum best.

What does a sports physical involve?

During a sports physical, your provider evaluates your child’s:

  • Medical history
  • Family history
  • Height and weight assessment
  • Vision exam
  • Musculoskeletal exam
  • Cardiac screening (pulse rate and blood pressure)

What if they find a problem?

Most sports physicals result in an approved form after a 20-30 minute visit with your provider. If your child’s physical returns an issue, your provider will likely refer your child to a specialist. It could be something as simple as a referral to an optometrist for glasses or a recheck of blood pressure in a week or two.

Providers rarely bar children completely from playing a specific sport. The majority of issues found in a sports physical can be treated in a way that allows your child to continue participation.

What should we bring for the exam?

Be prepared to complete information on your family history of illnesses and your child’s medical history. This includes hospitalizations, injuries, and surgeries. Remember to bring a list of all your child’s regular medications. If your child wears glasses make sure they have those for the exam.

In short, if your child intends to participate in a sport this summer or fall, now’s the time to schedule a sports physical. Our providers are prepared to complete this exam for your child and to provide follow up care if needed.

 

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Potty Talk: Show Us Your Poop

March 5, 2019 By Leave a Comment

toilet paper, colon cancer testing

We’re discussing what nobody else wants to talk about. Colorectal cancer, also known as colon cancer or rectal cancer, is the second most common type of cancer among adults and the leading cause of cancer death in the U.S. (Lung cancer is the most common form of cancer.)

In good news, the five-year survival rate for patients whose cancer is found in the early stages is 90%! Unfortunately, in about 40% of cases, the cancer is discovered in later stages where surgery is often the best treatment and treatment is harder.

So how do we detect colon cancer earlier? It starts with your yearly physical and includes tests like a colonoscopy if you’re over the age of 50 or have a high risk of contracting colon cancer.

Don’t stop reading because you aren’t ready for a colonoscopy!

Other tests can provide insight from the outside. Not only do people not want a colonoscopy, many can’t afford the test. That’s why we offer stool-based screenings in our office.

These screenings aren’t the best option for everyone, but for many of our patient’s it’s the place to start.

Fecal immunochemical test (FIT)

This test detects blood in your feces (stool). Your stool sample can be collected in our office or you can bring your sample from home. Not all polyps (extra tissue growing in your colon) bleed and not all blood that may be found in your stool is from a polyp or a cancerous polyp. Some blood found in your stool could be from hemorrhoids or other illnesses. If blood is detected your provider will likely order a colonoscopy. This test is recommended every year, but it’s minimally invasive.

Buaiac-based fecal occult blood test (gFOBT)

Like the FIT, the gFOBT tests for unseen blood in your stools but it works in a different way. Patients take this test home and follow the instructions on the kit to test multiple stool samples and return to their medical clinic where it is sent off to a lab.

Unlike FIT, gFOBT may react to certain medications like Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), vitamin C and red meat eaten the last three days before the test.

This test should be done every year and if blood is found in the stool a colonoscopy will be ordered to determine the source.

Stool DNA test

Unlike FIT and gFOBT, stool DNA tests look for abnormal sections of DNA from cancer or polyps in your stool. The process for this test is different than that of the other test but the stool sample may also be collected in the comfort of your own home. If you choose the DNA test, it’s suggested you repeat the test every three years.

Colonoscopy

Colonoscopy jokes at fiftieth birthday parties abound. It makes for a good punch line but not a fun day. This one test is the single best way to detect polyps and other abnormalities in the colon. Polyps that are detected can be biopsied and diagnosed during the colonoscopy. Most polyps take years (think 10-15) to grow into cancer. While the test is invasive, you’re only requested to have one every 10 years after age 50 (unless problems are found, then you may be asked to repeat the test more often).

Bottom line, don’t avoid colon cancer testing because you don’t want or can’t afford a colonoscopy. Our clinic or your regular medical provider’s clinic can handle stool tests as a first step screening for colon cancer. Make an appointment with one of our providers to discuss your options.

 

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Opioid Addiction Recovery: More Than A New Year’s Resolution

January 29, 2019 By Leave a Comment

opioid recovery support

On January 1 the new year lies in front us as a fresh, crisp calendar with no blemish of our imperfect lives. For many it inspires grand ideas of losing weight, saving money or being a better person. After a holiday, some people with addictions will prescribe the same resolutions to their opioid addiction recovery as others do to overeating. However well-intentioned, New Year’s resolutions often get shoved to the side as normal life resumes. For addicts, however, this perceived failure can cause more anxiety, depression and drug usage.

If you’d like to end next year clean and sober, don’t let failed resolutions block your way. Start with these ideas to improve your chances of success.

Seek Professional Help

Resolving to stop taking opioids or drinking alcohol alone usually lasts until the withdrawal symptoms become overwhelming. Trying to manage your withdrawal symptoms alone can also be dangerous. Contact our behavioral health clinic or a drug treatment center near you to receive professional help through your withdrawals.

In addition to drug treatment, treating underlying mental illnesses can improve an addict’s chances at recovery success. Talk to a counselor or psychologist about treatment for behavioral health issues which may trigger your likelihood to relapse.

Find Support From Family and Friends

Family and friends have watched your decline into drug or alcohol abuse and use. Let them support you as you work your way back to health. Talk to those who will provide positive support for your opioid addiction recovery journey. Don’t try to manage your addiction alone. Your family may also want to seek therapy as they work through their own feelings about your addiction’s effect on them.

Create One New Healthy Habit Each Month

Your health has likely declined as addiction claimed more prominence in your life. A healthy habit could be as simple as eating three meals a day or sleeping a full eight hours every night. Don’t attempt to start a full healthy eating regiment or large scale exercise program while you’re undergoing recovery. In the beginning of your opioid addiction recovery, you may find yourself just surviving life without drugs or alcohol. Gradually bringing your body back into health, however, helps fill the time you once spent doing drugs and begins the journey toward total health.

Read or Listen to an Inspiring Book

If reading doesn’t excite you, fill your thoughts with positive messages through podcasts, YouTube videos or audiobooks. Find authors or speakers who encourage addicts through the recovery process and read or listen to their work.

Prepare for Relapse

Statistics show 85% of people in recovery will relapse in the first year. Realize you will probably relapse and be prepared to start over. Talk to your family, friends, and counselors about the signs of relapse and what steps you’ll need to take when it happens. Remember relapse isn’t a failure but is part of the process, although one of the most dangerous parts of the process because your body isn’t accustomed to the number of drugs you once took.

If you’re ready to treat your addiction this year, whether it’s January or June, our counselors are ready to help you find the resources you need for a healthier you. You don’t have to do it alone. Call our behavioral health clinic at 662-282-4359 for an appointment.

 

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How Selma Blair’s Symptoms of MS Went Undiagnosed for 15 Years

December 26, 2018 By Leave a Comment

In October, Selma Blair, known best for her roles in Cruel Intentions and Legally Blonde, shared shocking news about her multiple sclerosis diagnosis on Instagram.

“I have had symptoms for years but was never taken seriously until I fell down in front of him [Dr. Jason Berkley) trying to sort out what I thought was a pinched nerve,” she wrote. “I have probably had this incurable disease for 15 years at least. And I am relieved to at least know.”

https://www.instagram.com/p/BpKjP_7FnWQ/?utm_source=ig_embed

How do symptoms of a neurological disease go masked for fifteen years?  

Symptoms of MS mimic those of other, often benign illnesses. In Blair’s case, she mistakenly thought she suffered from a pinched nerve. Symptoms often disappear after a few weeks without treatment leading a patient to believe the problem has resolved itself and delaying treatment.

No one test definitively diagnoses MS. A provider must first rule out other illnesses and often conducts an MRI of the brain to look for lesions on the brain or damage to the spinal cord.

What are the symptoms of MS?

The most common symptoms of MS include:

  • Blurred or double-vision
  • Pain and loss of vision
  • Difficulty walking
  • Prickling or “pins and needles” sensation, numbness or pain

Less known symptoms of MS include:

  • Muscle weakness in arms and legs
  • Poor coordination
  • Muscle stiffness and spasms
  • Loss of sensation
  • Speech impediments
  • Tremor
  • Dizziness
  • Hearing loss
  • Concentration problems
  • Difficulty paying attention
  • Memory lapses
  • Poor judgment

Who’s at risk for MS?

Women experience higher rates of MS diagnosis than men and Caucasians of northern European ancestry are more likely than other ethnic groups to suffer from MS, although MS occurs in most ethnic groups. People in tropical climates are less likely to suffer from MS than people from more temperate climates. Researchers believe that’s because people who live the first 15 years of their lives in tropical climates have higher levels of vitamin D. While all these categories may increase the risk of developing MS, the disease may be developed by anyone.

What should I do if I have these symptoms?

Selma Blair’s break occurred when a friend insisted she see a doctor for her symptoms. If you’ve had the symptoms listed above off and on for more than a few months, it’s time to call your provider. Women’s Health breaks down these symptoms into more concrete terms and when it’s time to sound the alarms. Keep track of your symptoms and share them with your provider. Don’t be discouraged if your provider rules out other illnesses first. Your provider doesn’t take this diagnosis lightly. Testing for other illnesses is the first step to finding the correct diagnosis and treatment so you feel like you again.

Our providers are ready to talk to you about any medical symptoms you’re experiencing. You can request an appointment through our website or by calling our clinic at (662)-282-4226.

 

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I don’t understand what my provider said, but I’m afraid to tell them

December 19, 2018 By Leave a Comment

I don't know what my provider said

Have you ever left a doctor’s appointment more confused about your health than when you arrived? Maybe your provider prescribed a new medication or diagnosed you with an illness whose name is so long you can’t quite remember how it went. Either way, you are not alone. Nine out of ten patients across the nation have trouble remembering and understanding what their provider said. Even highly educated patients suffer from a lack of understanding about medical terms especially when they are under extreme stress or not feeling well.

Not understanding how to take your medication, how to care for an illness at home or when you should go back to the doctor can lead to serious complications and even death. If it’s so important to understand what your medical condition, what can patients do to make sure they fully understand what their doctor said?

Repeat it back

New guidelines suggest providers ask patients to repeat back in their own words what the provider said. If your doctor or nurse practitioner does not ask you to repeat their instructions back, you can offer it yourself. Simply start with, “You’ve given me a lot of information, here’s what I heard, is that right?” Then repeat back what your provider said.

Take someone with you

When your provider prescribes diagnoses an illness, it’s often hard to remember all the information when you get home. Ask a friend or relative to join you for the appointment. They might take notes or ask questions you can’t think to ask.

Ask questions

Sometimes it’s hard to remember all the questions you want to ask when you’re sitting in the crosshairs of your provider’s stare, even if they have the best bedside manner. Write a list of questions you want to ask prior to your appointment. The National Patient Safety Foundation suggests starting with these three questions:

  • What is my main problem?
  • What do I need to do?
  • What is it important that I do this?

If your provider adds a medication, always ask “should I continue taking all my current medications as well?”

Record the conversation

Most clinics have notices prohibiting the use of cell phones to record or take pictures in their building. These rules are based on HIPAA to keep other patients’ information safe. Ask your provider if you can record your conversation in case you can’t remember what they said when you get home. If you are comfortable writing notes, keep a notebook strictly for medical visits. Ask your provider to spell any conditions with which you are unfamiliar.

Know your history

Either write down a list of medications you take or take a picture of the label with your cell phone. They will ask for an update of medications at the beginning of the appointment. Also, list any major illnesses or surgeries you have had or major illnesses of your parents. If the patient is a child, list any illnesses such as high blood pressure, diabetes, cancer or heart disease in the child’s mother or father. Bringing this list to the appointment with you saves you time when filling out forms and helps the doctor to have a complete record of the patient’s medical history.

Healthcare has changed over the last two decades. Providers have less time to spend with individual patients and patients have more access to information via the internet than ever before. Admitting you don’t understand what a provider said can be intimidating. Don’t be embarrassed. You are among the majority.

Clearing up misunderstandings will give you confidence when you need to make a medical decision and it’s shown to lead to healthier lifestyles. Start taking control of your health by ensuring you understand what your doctor said.

 

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Finding and Educating Your Diabetes Support Team

December 5, 2018 By Leave a Comment

diabetes support team

Telling your family and friends about your diabetes may be the next hardest hurdle you’ll face after receiving your diabetes diagnosis. But one of the best predictors of how a person manages their diabetes is the amount of support they receive from friends and family. While you may not want to start out your next family get together with a big diabetes announcement, it’s helpful for those close to you to know and understand what’s happening with your health.

When you’re reeling from the diagnosis yourself, it’s hard to know how to help your family create the support team you need and they want to be. Start here as you discuss your diagnosis with your diabetes support team.

Education

You’re still learning about diabetes yourself, so don’t feel like you have to be the source of education for everyone. Point them toward resources like our blog on diabetes, our monthly classes, or the American Diabetes Association website.

As your discussions evolve, decide how involved you want your diabetes support team to be in your diabetes management. Do you appreciate someone reminding you to check your blood sugar or does it make you angry? Your family won’t know where your boundaries lie unless you tell them.

As part of your own education and the education of your family members, remember diabetes is different for everyone. Some patients struggle to manage their blood sugar numbers no matter how well they eat or exercise. You may just have bad days and blame from yourself or others won’t help, a hug or phone call just to chat might though.

Lifestyle Changes

In addition to learning about diabetes, your friends and family, as your diabetes support team, can support the lifestyle changes you make by adopting some of those themselves. If you’re working to add exercise into your routine, ask your family to join you. Encourage those eating with you to also eat from the healthier diet you’re now following. Everyone can benefit from increased exercise and a better diet.

Find a Friend

As supportive and loving as your family may be, you’ll want to connect with others who also have diabetes. Our monthly diabetes education class allows you to meet others in North Mississippi who also struggle with diabetes. If you don’t live near enough to join our class, search your local area for a diabetes support group. Facebook also hosts a number of diabetes support groups online where you can find others who understand your questions and daily work to keep your blood sugar under control.

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