Sleepy Eye Medical Center’s diabetic education program can provide you with support and resources to successfully manage your diabetes. Diabetic patients can receive in-depth, one-on-one education with our diabetes educator RN or dietician, or both.
Frequently Asked Questions
Am I at Risk?
Your risk for diabetes depends on the type. For Type 1 diabetes, the body doesn’t produce any insulin. Risk factors are higher if you have a family history of diabetes. There are also higher incidences of diabetes in people who have been exposed to certain types of viruses, have certain types of immune system cells or certain deficiencies in their diets.
In Type 2 diabetes, the body produces inadequate levels of insulin. Risk factors include family history, being overweight, being less physically active, increases in age, having high blood pressure and/or high cholesterol, having a history of gestational diabetes (diabetes when pregnant) or having polycystic ovarian syndrome. You also have a higher risk of Type 2 diabetes if you are African American, Hispanic, Native American or Asian American.
Gestational diabetes is diabetes when you are pregnant. Your risk for this type of diabetes increases if you are greater than 25, overweight and have a family or personal history of diabetes. You also have a higher risk if you are of African American, Hispanic, Native American or Asian American descent.
What are the symptoms of diabetes?
The symptoms of diabetes vary based on the type and how high your blood sugar is. Some people have symptoms that come on very quickly, and others have no symptoms. Some signs and symptoms of diabetes include:
- Excessive hunger
- Excessive thirst
- Excessive urination
- Unplanned weight loss
- Fatigue
- Irritability
- Changes in vision
- Frequent infections
What are the complications of diabetes?
There are several serious complications that can arise from diabetes, especially if you have had it for a long time or it is not controlled. Some of these complications include:
- Heart disease
- Stroke
- Kidney damage
- Eye damage
- Nerve damage
- Foot damage
- Skin infections
- Hearing problems
- Alzheimer’s Disease
In gestational diabetes, your baby is at a greater risk of being too large, which can result in a more difficult delivery. Your baby may also have low blood sugar after birth and have diabetes themselves later in life. Women who are diabetic during pregnancy have a higher risk of complications like high blood pressure, excessive swelling and having gestational diabetes with subsequent pregnancies, or later in life.
I was just diagnosed with diabetes. Now what?
Your care provider will work with you to develop an individualized diabetes management plan. There are several medications you can be prescribed, depending on the type and severity of your diabetes. Taking care of yourself is a very important component. This means taking your medication as prescribed, getting enough rest, eating well, maintaining a healthy weight and being physically active.
Your care provider may want you to see a dietician or diabetes educator, or both. They will provide you with tools and information to help you be successful in managing your diabetes.
How do I make an appointment?
Your care provider will make a referral for these services. The dietician and diabetes education RN see patients on Wednesdays. Our scheduling department can work with you to coordinate a time that works best for you. To schedule an appointment, call 507-794-3571 between 7:30 and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Is Diabetic Education covered by insurance?
Insurance is accepted, but coverage varies among insurance providers and plans. Contact your insurance provider to verify coverage and the number of allowed sessions per year.
What should I bring to my diabetes education appointment?
- All medications, both prescription and over the counter
- Your diabetes log book (if you have one)
- Your food diary (if you have one)
- Your diabetes testing supplies, such as your glucometer, lancets, testing needles (if you have them)