Diabetes Support

What is Diabetes

Diabetes Mellitus (often referred to as simply “Diabetes”) is a condition where the body cannot maintain normal blood glucose levels.

We need glucose to provide us with the energy and we need insulin to help the glucose enter the body cells.

There are times we need support to maintain a balance in glucose levels, we can help in maintaining that balance.

Types of Diabetes

Type 1 diabetes

Previously known as ‘juvenile diabetes’, type 1 diabetes is an auto-immune condition.
This type of diabetes accounts for 10-15% of all people with diabetes.

Type 2 Diabetes

Previously known as ‘mature-onset’ diabetes, type 2 diabetes is the more common form of diabetes, affecting around 85% of people with diabetes worldwide.

Gestational Diabetes

is defined as “a carbohydrate intolerance of variable severity with the first onset or diagnosis during the current pregnancy."

Diabetes does not just affect individuals, it affects families, friends, carers and colleagues as well.

Why you may need diabetes support

It can be challenging at times to manage diabetes. Glucose levels can be unpredictable at the best of times. So it will no doubt be good to know that we are here to help you with any support that you may need. Whether is it is information, practical advice, education, emotional support, health coaching or something else. Do not hesitate to contact Carolien for an individual appointment; she will set time aside to meet with you and to support you as and when needed.

Read on for more information on all things diabetes.

Types of diabetes

Here we discuss the types of diabetes, the signs and symptoms you may experience, treatment options and prevention of high and low blood glucose levels.

Self-management

Read on for information on travelling with diabetes, sick day management, diabetes and pregnancy, and prevention or management of diabetes complications

Treatment targets

How high or low should your levels be? Read on for information on treatment targets and to find recommendations to help you and your doctor

Treatment options

In this section you find information on new medications and treatment options, the latest gadgets such as blood glucose meters, injection devices and insulin pumps

Other related medical issues

Diabetes is often associated with other medical problems, such as hypertension (high blood pressure), cholesterol, obesity, and depression. Click to learn more.

Motivational and inspiring stories

I have struggled with my weight my whole adult life. As a result I developed type 2 diabetes. Initially I just tried to ignore it, but after a few years I had a heart attack. Turns out the 2 are linked! Carolien put everything in perspective and helped me to gain control. I now check my sugar levels regularly and take my medication every day. With Carolien’s help I am managing to keep my levels between 5 and 10, and I feel better than I have in years. Thanks so much for all your advice and support Carolien, you sure have helped make life with diabetes easier.

Patricia

I have had anxiety for quite a few years and then I became a type 1 diabetic. Not a good combination, as I ended up checking my sugars around 20 times per day to make sure that I was not having any hypos.
Carolien helped me reduce my anxiety by giving me some mindfulness exercises. At first, I was sceptical, but who would have thought? They work!
And I now use continuous glucose monitoring which means I can keep a close eye on my sugars, but without having to prick my fingers all the time.

Warren

Carolien helped me to understand why I need to take insulin injections every day and she showed me how to do this myself, without too much discomfort. I never thought I would be able to inject myself, but I am now doing it and it is easier than I thought!

Maureen

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Diabetes-Support Australia and Shire Total Healthcare acknowledge the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia. We pay our respects to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures; and to Elders past and present.