There are thought to be many people living in the Gulf who have diabetes and do not know they have it. The symptoms can often be missed, but unfortunately if the condition is ignored it can cause long-term complications including heart disease, high blood pressure and eye damage.

• You are always thirsty

• You pass water a lot

• You are always tired

• Your vision is sometimes blurred

• You get cramps at night

• You often get infections

• Your wounds heal slowly

• You often get thrush or genital itching

• Your hands and feet often feel numb

It is important to be proactive. Diabetes can be well managed and you can live a normal life. It is important, especially if you have family members who have diabetes, to go and see a specialist and have a test.
 

If you have diabetes you need to have a good foot care routine to prevent any injuries which may take time to heal and can cause ulcers.

•  Circle your feet and gentle massage your feet in the morning in the safety of your bed to improve circulation.

•  Do not sit with your legs crossed, nor walk about barefoot, even in the house.

• If your eyesight is poor, ask a member of your family or a friend to examine your feet on a daily basis, but do not let them cut corns and calluses for you.

•  Never wear tight shoes as they may cause blisters.

• Do not use commercial corn pastes, paints or plasters, they can and do, cause serious damage.

• Do not smoke. Smoking impairs the circulation, particularly in persons with diabetes. It can seriously worsen foot and leg problems.
 

— Megan
 
Having diabetes does not mean you need to eat a sugar-free diet. Sugar can be used in foods and in baking as part of a healthy diet. However, use sugar-free, no added sugar or diet squashes and fizzy drinks, as sugary drinks cause blood glucose levels to rise quickly.

— Alva