Understanding the challenges of those living with diabetes

Approximately 4.3 million people in the UK live with diabetes, with a further 850,000 living undiagnosed with the condition*. With symptoms ranging from mild to severe, diabetes can have a significant impact on your well-being.  

We offer specialist diabetes care across the UK, ranging from support with day-to-day symptoms to assistance with medications and monitoring blood sugar levels.  

Diabetes can be a difficult condition to manage, but with the right support, it’s possible to live a healthy, happy life. 

*Statistics from Diabetes UK.  

What is diabetes?

Diabetes is a common long-term condition that affects your body’s production and use of insulin. Left untreated, diabetes can lead to medical complications including: 

• Heart disease 
• Kidney disease 
• Loss of vision 
• Nerve damage 
• Stroke 

Diabetes can affect people of any age, ethnicity, or gender.  

How Does Diabetes Affect Your Body?

The food you eat is broken down into glucose and released into your bloodstream. As your blood sugar rises (after eating) your pancreas releases insulin - a hormone that allows glucose to enter your cells to be used as energy.  

Diabetes is when your body doesn’t produce enough insulin or doesn’t use the insulin properly. If your insulin levels are too low, blood sugar builds up in your bloodstream, potentially leading to severe health problems.   

Types of Support for Diabetes

Our care assistants are friendly, compassionate, and fully trained to offer quality diabetes care, tailored to your unique needs. For example: 

• Help with appropriate food choices, shopping, and cooking 
• Preparing regular meals and drinks to ensure your blood levels remain balanced and you stay hydrated 
• Support with an active lifestyle; improving self-care and mental health 
• Practical support with day-to-day symptoms such as fatigue, blurred vision, hunger, and weight loss 
• Assistance with medication and monitoring of glucose levels 
• Help to identify signs of hypoglycaemia such as confusion, personality changes, headaches, speech and self-care difficulties, loss of appetite, aggression, unsteadiness, or loss of consciousness  
• Liaising with health care services to ensure you get the right treatment 

Diabetes can be a frustrating condition, with many aspects to consider. Our care assistants are always happy to offer a friendly knowledgeable ear.  

Help with Diabetes

Diabetes is a serious condition. Left untreated, it can lead to heart disease, stroke, dental problems, nerve damage, and even blindness. As such, it’s important to seek appropriate support.  

At Bluebird Care, we offer tailored diabetes care, helping you and your family manage the condition and enjoy a healthy, active life. Contact us today to see how we can help.  

Find reliable advice about the symptoms, causes and treatment of diabetes from the NHS website and Diabetes UK.