If you have just been diagnosed with Diabetes Mellitus then you will very quickly be made aware that some strict lifestyle changes will need to be implemented to help prevent or reduce the problems associated with the disease. These problems can be acute or chronic both of which can become very serious.

The complications associated with acute effects of diabetes can be very severe, resulting in the patient going into coma or even dieing if they are not immediately seen to. One of these acute complications is Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA) the onset of which results from a lack of stored energy due to insufficient insulin.

Another acute complication is Hyperglycemic Hyperosmolar Nonketotic Syndrome (HHNS). This condition is usually brought on by another illness or infection and results in blood sugar levels rising and consequent dehydration as the body tries to pass out the excess sugar in the urine. Seizures, coma and death are all possible consequences of HHNS.

The long term or chronic complications that can arise from diabetes include changes in the organs, tissues and blood vessels. This can result in other diseases such as diabetic retinopathy, cerebrovascular disease and coronary artery disease. Other problems which can arise are kidney failure, erectile dysfunction and Diabetic Neuropath which is when the nerves are damaged resulting in losing feeling or constant pain.

So, taking all of these potential problems into account you can see why lifestyle changes are advised. The first and most important step is to keep a close eye on your diet. If you eat too much or are obese then you need to cut your food intake. You will also have to become more educated on the nutritional composition of all foods you buy. Counting fats and carbohydrates should be a daily activity and your doctor can advise how to do this effectively. Avoiding foods high in simple sugars is also very important.

Being a diabetic involves spending a lot more time looking after yourself and monitoring such things as blood sugar levels. The level of sugar in your blood is particularly important before and after a meal and before and after exercise. This is to help the doctor learn more about how your body reacts to food and exercise so they can treat you better.

Finally, as well as educating and monitoring yourself you should also educate all the people around you about your condition. This means that should you experience any of the aforementioned acute complications associated with diabetes the people around you will know how best to react to possibly save your life.