What should I know about updating my type 2 diabetes treatment plan?
Type 2 diabetes is a progressive condition, meaning it can change and become more complex to manage over time. As it progresses, your body may produce less insulin or become more resistant to it, requiring adjustments to your treatment plan. Here are some key points to consider when updating your treatment: 1. **Why isn't my current treatment working?** Your blood sugar or A1C levels might rise despite a healthy diet and exercise. This could be due to the progression of diabetes, complications, or interference from other medications. 2. **Injectable Medications:** There are insulin and non-insulin injectables. Insulin helps move glucose into cells for energy, while non-insulin injectables help your body produce more insulin and reduce glucose release from the liver. 3. **Need for Injectables:** If diet, exercise, and oral medications aren't enough, you might need injectables. This doesn't mean you've failed; it's a necessary step as diabetes progresses. 4. **Fear of Needles:** Some injectables use pen-shaped devices or very small needles, making the process easier. 5. **Combination Therapy:** You might continue taking oral medications like metformin alongside injectables. 6. **Monitoring Effectiveness:** Regular A1C tests and at-home blood sugar tests will help you and your doctor determine if the new treatment is working. 7. **Lifestyle Adjustments:** While medication is crucial, maintaining a healthy diet and exercise routine is still important. 8. **Future Changes:** Diabetes management is ongoing, and your treatment plan may need further adjustments over time. Regular monitoring and consultations with your doctor are essential.