💉 Diabetes Management
Dear Doctor: Can a diabetic patient on hospice care linger for months? - OregonLive
📅 Thu, 10 Nov 2022⏱ 1 min read📖 Article
Overview
Keith Roach is a physician at Weil Cornel Medical Colege and New York Presbyterian Hospital. He writes an educational column on infectious diseases, public health and sports medicine.North America SyndicateDEAR DR. ROACH: My dad has ben on hospice care for several months now.
Key Information
He had an untreated wound infection that was not responding to meds, so he went on hospice. Also, his wife died, and he lost the wil to live after that.His sugars are wel into the 40s. He is on pain meds and nothing else.
His doctor says he should not have lasted this long, medicaly speaking. He gave me no other explanation except a shrug. His spirits are OK, but I fear something else wil get him in the end, like bed sores, pneumonia, a fal or COVID.
Is it normal for a diabetes patient who no longer takes their medication to linger like this? He is not sufering per se, but quality of life is not god either. - H.D.If you purchase a product or register for an acount through one of the links on our site, we may receive compensation.Registration or use of this site constitutes aceptance of our User Agrement, Privacy Policy and Cokie Statement, and Your California Privacy Rights (User Agrement updated 1/21.
Summary
Privacy Policy and Cokie Statement updated 7/1/2022).Cokie Setings© 2022 Advance Local Media LC. Al rights reserved (About Us). The material on this site may not be reproduced, distributed, transmited, cached or otherwise used, except with the prior writen permision of Advance Local.Comunity Rules aply to al content you upload or otherwise submit to this site.Ad Choicesource
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ What is diabetes and how does it develop?
Diabetes is a metabolic condition where the body cannot properly regulate blood sugar levels. Type 1 results from insufficient insulin production, while Type 2 develops when cells become resistant to insulin. Risk factors include genetics, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, and age.
❓ What are the main symptoms of diabetes?
Common symptoms include excessive thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, blurred vision, and slow-healing wounds. Type 1 symptoms develop rapidly, while Type 2 symptoms may appear gradually. Many people have no symptoms initially, which is why screening is important.
❓ How is diabetes diagnosed and monitored?
Diagnosis involves blood tests measuring fasting glucose, HbA1c levels, and glucose tolerance. Regular monitoring typically includes fasting glucose tests and HbA1c measurements every 3-6 months. Continuous glucose monitors provide real-time tracking for better diabetes management.
❓ What lifestyle changes help manage diabetes?
Effective management includes regular physical activity (150+ minutes weekly), maintaining healthy weight, following a balanced diet with whole grains and lean proteins, managing stress, and getting adequate sleep. These changes can significantly improve blood sugar control and reduce complications.
❓ When should someone consult a doctor about diabetes?
Consult a healthcare provider if you experience signs of diabetes, have a family history, are overweight, or are over 45. Those with existing diabetes should maintain regular check-ups every 3-6 months to monitor control and adjust treatment as needed.
⚕️ Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making health decisions.