Top Tips for Managing Diabetes

What changes to my lifestyle will help my diabetes?

Eat regular meals in smaller portions. Include fruits, vegetables, chicken, skimmed milk, cereals, and pasta

Exercise regularly, at least 30 minutes daily, e.g., walking, jogging, running, swimming

Avoid salty, sugary, fatty and processed foods

Lose weight if overweight

Stop smoking. Limit your alcohol consumption

Reduce stress levels

The Surgery team can refer you to specialist clinics for support with mental health, quitting smoking, managing alcohol intake, or weight management.

Why is an annual eye check
important?

Annual eye checks are crucial as diabetes is the leading cause of blindness in the UK.

Always attend the Retinal Screening appointments when invited. The team will test your vision and look at the back of your eye (retina) with a special device.

Remember: if you experience blurry or double vision, new headaches, nausea, or vomiting, it could be something serious, so please report it to your Surgery team or optician as soon as possible.

Should I have any vaccines?

Individuals with diabetes are 5 times more likely to be hospitalised with flu and lung infection as they have weakened immune systems.

Therefore, vaccines are vital in reducing the risk of severe infections and even death!

We offer annual flu vaccine in the winter months

We also recommend a one-off pneumonia vaccine to protect you against lung infections

There are other vaccines that are recommended depending on your age. The Surgery team will advise.

Can I still drive if I have
diabetes?

Most people with diabetes can drive normally but you should inform the DVLA and your insurance company. Depending on your type of diabetes and what type of vehicle you drive, there may be additional requirements. It is very important these are satisfied otherwise you could be breaking the law. See here for more details: https://www.gov.uk/diabetes-driving

Are my medications important?

  • Yes! Take all medications as recommended, every day. Try not to miss any doses.
  • If you are not sure what to take or when, please ask a Surgery practitioner.
  • Make sure you do not run out of medications. You pharmacist can help make sure you always have supplies.

How can I look after my feet?

Examine your skin for any damage, wounds, corns, or calluses (dry, hard, thickened skin). Check closely for cuts or scratches.

Wash your feet regularly and dry them thoroughly, especially between the toes. As sensation in the feet decreases with age, you may unknowingly burn or injure your feet.

Always check the water temperature with your hand/elbow before showering.

Cut toenails straight across. If you would like a referral to a podiatrist (foot specialist), we can arrange that during your appointment.

Avoid going barefoot and wear comfortable, wide-fitting shoes when going outside or well-padded slippers at home.

Inspect your footwear for small pebbles or stones, as you may not feel them, but they can cause significant damage.

How often should I come to the Surgery diabetic clinic?

Around once a year you will need a diabetic check at the Surgery. Two weeks or so before this, please have a blood and urine test (ask the reception team for the forms). You may need additional appointments – we will let you know. Whenever we ask you to come for an appointment, please do so!