DIABETES AND EMBARASSING
QUESTIONS
AVEON HEALTH
Diabetes Experts
I have discovered that the adage, “Old age comes with a lot of Indignities,” is, in fact, most valid! And, as seems to be the case with just about every other aspect of life, this is magnified for those of us who are “Blessed” with Diabetes, as it is even worse! This is especially true if you are modest, or the type of person who prefers to keep your concerns, especially your health concerns, to yourself. While there are undoubtedly more questions than we could ever include, we trust that the ones we cover herein will benefit you in your quest to better understanding your life with Diabetes.
In each of the situations we will discuss, you can combat and counteract them by adhering to the tried and true lifestyle programs of dealing with Diabetes. This includes, but may not be limited to: Diet Control – Maintaining an Appropriate Body Weight – Exercise – Taking Medications – Controlling Alcohol Consumption and Eliminating Smoking. In the following over-views we may discuss additional methods as well.
- Why are my toenails black and/or yellow? – The immediate answer is because of Onychomycosis, or Toenail Fungus. Uncontrolled Blood Sugar frequently creates environments where fungus likes to grow, and this includes Toe Fungus. Unfortunately, it also creates an environment where White Blood Cells are unable to ward off infection as easily.
What You Should Know: Toenail Fungus should not be taken lightly! Per an article in the July 17 issue of International Wound Journal, patients with Onychomycosis are at a much higher risk for amputation than those without. There are medications, both oral and topical, that can be prescribed to help battle Onychomycosis.
- Why can’t I get an Erection? – The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases has shared that men with Diabetes are more than three times likely to have ED than men who do not. This is true due to the fact the Diabetes compromises both nerves and circulation.
What You Should Know: Adhering to the afore mentioned Healthy Lifestyle will go a long way to alleviate this problem. There are, however, additional medications that can be prescribed to help with issue.
- Why Can’t I Make it to the Bathroom? – This one is far more prevalent than one might believe. In fact, it is estimated that some 89% of Diabetics will face some form of Bladder Dysfunction. The two most common are Incontinence and the frequent urge to Urinate.
What You Should Know: The most detrimental elements to this, other than the “Embarrassment Factor,” is the fact that it can create dehydration which, in turn, leads to excessive thirst. A weight loss program may be especially beneficial for this issue, as excessive weight can put undue pressure on the Bladder.
- Why do Itch … Down There: – It is quite possible that the main reason for this situation is a Yeast Infection, or overgrowth of the Candida Albican’s Fungus. While a large percentage of women will fall victim to this at least once in their lifetime, more than four Yeast Infections per year may require aggressive treatment as it puts it into the “recurrent” category. Inasmuch as Yeasts like moist places, the problem is magnified by the fact that Diabetics often find excess sugar appearing in the mucus of the vagina, thus feeding the Fungus.
What You Should Know: Again, this can be battled by prescriptions for oral and/or topical medications.
- Why Does my Breath Smell? – This may be the result of Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA).
What You Should Know: DKA is far more of a concern than just proving to be embarrassing! In fact, it can lead to Diabetic Coma and even Death! As a result, if you believe you have DKA it is imperative that you make your way to your Health Provider or the Emergency Room!
Fortunately, DKA is a rare condition in Type 2 Diabetics, but, nonetheless, one that should not be ignored! Proper dental care should always be followed, which includes daily brushing and flossing.
We hope that this material has answered some to the questions that may have been plaguing you. We would suggest that you put possible embarrassment and modesty aside when it comes to your health, and that if you have any questions you confer with your Health Provider to ensure that your receive the best care possible in battling your Diabetes!
If you, or someone you know, needs help in managing their Diabetes, please call AVEON HEALTH at 480-300-4663 to make an appointment with a member of our staff and allow them to escort you down the path to an improved quality of life for you and your loved ones!
This Blog was written, in great part, with information gleaned from the following sources:
https://www.everydayhealth.com/hs/type-2-diabetes-live-better-guide/embarrassing-diabetes-questions/
https://www.gbmc.org/5-embarrassing-questions