Diabetes is a long-term (chronic) condition caused by too much glucose (sugar) in the blood. It is also known as diabetes mellitus. There are two types of diabetes - type 1 and type 2.
According to the charity Diabetes UK, more than two million people in the UK have the condition and up to 750,000 more are believed to have it without realising they do.
https://www.diabetes.org.uk/
More than three-quarters of people with diabetes have type 2 diabetes mellitus. This used to be known as non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) or maturity-onset diabetes mellitus. The number of people with type 2 diabetes is rapidly increasing as it commoner in the overweight and obese, which is itself a growing problem.
The remainder have type 1 diabetes mellitus, which used to be known as insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus.
What's the treatment for diabetes?
It's recognised that the sooner the blood sugar levels are brought under control, the better the long term prospects of preventing damage. Lifestyle advice about diet, weight management and regular activity is the first step.
Type 1 diabetes will require immediate insulin therapy, Type 2 diabetes will first be managed with a drug called Metformin, if lifestyle changes alone aren't effective. There are now several other drugs used in type 2 diabetes, although eventually some type 2 diabetics will need insulin therapy as it's a progressive disease.
Diabetic Eye Screening
This has been continuinmg for high risk patients such as those who needed 3 or 6 month reviews and pregnant patients. Screening program will restart in January 2021
NEW APP FOR PATIENTS
Burnham Surgery has been chosen to trial a new app for patients with Type 2 Diabetes, Asthma and COPD.
An interactive app which can be used on mobile phone, tablet or home computer.
Designed to help patients manage their condition and brings you the most comprehensive, user friendly app available on any device. Built by experts the App puts you in control like never before, with expert education on all aspects.
If you are interested let the surgery know by contacting them and providing your name , Date of Birth and email address and we will register you for the App.
We now have a Digital Health Support Adviser to help you set up the App
Details below on how to contact her
My Health Digital Support