Treatment Methods of Diabetes Type 2 - Essay Example

With over 2.9 million of the UK population being diagnosed with diabetes, and there is no cure for diabetes, an effective treatment plan is necessary and should be followed. The two common methods of treatment of this disease are monitoring the blood sugar level and using medication. The first treatment method is the use of medication. This treatment method is mainly for those who cannot maintain a reduced blood sugar level or whose condition has advanced. Some of the diabetes medications prescribed include metformin (which is aimed at lowering the production of glucose in the liver), glipizide (aimed at stimulating the pancreas to release more insulin), or acarbose (that prevents enzymes from breaking down carbohydrates in the intestines). Other than these medications, there is also insulin therapy which is administered through injection and its advantage is that it works rapidly and lasts longer (Spencer and Hughes, 2005).

Monitoring of the blood sugar level requires a lifestyle change (as some of the risk factors are associated with lifestyle). This will require the diabetes patient to constantly exercise to burn off excess weight around the abdomen area and to also reduce weight generally for those considered obese when a BMI (body mass index) is conducted. Healthy eating is also required which means eating foods high in fiber like whole grains, and plenty of fruits and vegetables. A reduction in the intake of carbohydrates, sweets, and animal products, in general, is also one of the treatment plans. It is also important to lay off stress or factors causing or perpetuating stress as well as reducing alcohol intake to maintain low blood sugar (Levene and Donnelly, 2011).

The first professional is a general practitioner who is bound to diagnose the condition and initiate drug treatment. The other is a nurse who is required for insulin therapy to administer the injections. As for the other treatment that does not involve medication, the professionals include nutritionists, physical fitness instructors, and gynecologists (for those who are pregnant).

As people’s lifestyles continue to improve, it is important to maintain healthy eating habits and exercise regularly to minimize the risk factors mentioned above. For those with family members with the disease, constant screening is required on top of maintaining a healthy lifestyle (Edelman and Henry, 2011).