Diabetes is a condition that causes a person’s blood sugar level to become too high.
There are 2 main types of diabetes:
- type 1 diabetes – a lifelong condition where the body’s immune system attacks and destroys the cells that produce insulin
- type 2 diabetes – where the body does not produce enough insulin, or the body’s cells do not react to insulin properly
Type 2 diabetes is far more common than type 1. In the UK, over 90% of all adults with diabetes have type 2.
High blood sugar that develops during pregnancy is known as gestational diabetes. It usually goes away after giving birth.
Our specialist diabetes team will provide you with support, regular reviews and the day-to-day care of your needs.
All Diabetic patients are entitled to an annual review. The Practice will normally contact you if yours is due. If you feel you have been missed, or require a more urgent review, then please contact the practice via PATCHS to arrange an appointment.
During the appointment, usually with a Healthcare Assistant, your general metrics will be measured each year, including blood pressure, height and weight, a blood test will be done and a urine sample taken.
For more information please visit the websites below:
Useful links
REWIND Programme
Please see the leaflet and website link below for more information regarding the Diabetes REWIND programme
https://www.knowdiabetes.org.uk/for-you/programmes/type-2/diabetes-rewind-programme/
https://belmonthealthcentre.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Rewind-patient-information-leaflet.pdf
Non-Diabetic Hyperglycaemia (Pre-diabetes)
Many people have blood sugar levels above the normal range, but not high enough to be diagnosed as having diabetes. This is known as non-diabetic hyperglycaemia, or pre-diabetes.
People with non-diabetic hyperglycaemia are at greater risk of developing type 2 diabetes, but the risk can be reduced through lifestyle changes.
If you have non-diabetic hyperglycaemia, you may be eligible for the NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme. The programme helps people make lasting lifestyle changes and has been shown to help prevent type 2 diabetes.
People with non-diabetic hyperglycaemia are also recommended to have a blood test every year to monitor their blood sugar levels.
It’s very important for diabetes to be diagnosed as early as possible because it’s likely to get worse if left untreated and can cause long-term health problems.
