Struggling with sugar and pressure

Tomlin Paul, 50 and living better

A growing number of persons 50 and over are diagnosed with diabetes and high blood pressure yearly. I now find these two conditions getting my attention in almost every other patient coming through the office door. Outside of the science of the conditions, there are a number of challenges that I have to contend with daily.

See if you can identify with any of these.

Challenge #1 - I feel fine!

"Doc, I know everything is fine because I don't have any headaches."

There is a common belief that high blood pressure gives you a headache. This is generally not the case. There's really no way you can tell for sure what your blood pressure reading is until you read it! Similarly, although there's a long list of diabetes symptoms which I know you are looking out for, you should not wait to feel sick before you go for that check up. Chances are by the time you find diabetes it has been brewing in your body for a few years. The sooner you find these conditions and control them, the less will be the damage to your heart, kidneys, brain, eyes and blood vessels! So keep checking on yourself.

Challenge #2 - I don't really have it!

"Mrs Smith, your tests show that you have developed diabetes."

Looking quite shocked, she replies, "You know, doc, I don't think I really have it!"

Just getting this news and all of the changes that come with it can be quite scary and can throw you into shock. Unfortunately, some of my patients keep on saying that they "don't really have it" and yet their file is full of abnormal results.

Sometimes you cannot see that you are running away from the reality and you go try everything else except what has been recommended. Remember that an appropriate diet, exercise and weight management are all very important for these conditions. Medications are not always necessary, but if your readings are not normal, then you need to do what is recommended to get them back in line.

Challenge # 3 - I am out of medications!

"Doc, I am calling to tell you that mom was admitted to Public last night!" says a heartbroken and anxious daughter.

Mom has had pressure and sugar for over 10 years. For most of her visits, her pressure and sugar are not controlled. She always runs out of medication and then comes in weeks later. Even when she has medications, she has not been taking them regularly. Now in hospital, her left side is totally weak and she cannot swallow.

We do not have the formula to totally avoid complications. However, taking charge and being more aggressive in getting both your pressure and sugar readings to a good target and actively managing your life, including the depression that can set in, will lessen your chances of having unwanted events.

So keep courage as you take on the struggle with these two conditions. Do early checks, have an aggressive and consistent lifestyle approach, get some support, take your medication, keep an eye on your readings, and don't stop until they get to the desired target.

Dr Tomlin Paul is a family physician at Health Plus Associates in Kingston; email: yourhealth@gleanerjm.com