Living with Diabetes
Everyday Life
After the initial shock of a diabetes diagnosis wears off, your family will begin adjusting to life with diabetes. With a little planning and preparation, you can resume all of your normal day-to-day activities, such as exercising or going out to eat.
Diabetes should not keep your child from achieving her highest goals. There are Olympic athletes, professional football players, congressmen, actors, and rock stars who live with diabetes. We can help you prepare for all the new "firsts" and get ready to manage your child's care with ease.
Serious Lows
Talk with your diabetes heathcare team about handle a low blood glucose emergency (hypoglycemia).
Shots & Checks
Whether you have to give one or get one, insulin shots or finger pokes for blood glucose (BG) checks are no fun.
Sick Days
Watch your child's blood glucose levels carefully when she has a cold or the flu.
Always have supplies handy
- Glucose tablets
- Fast-acting sugar can include things like juice, hard candies, regular soda or even cake icing
- Two glucagon kits at home and available at all times (replace these kits every year)
Throw Away Used Needles Safely
Collect used needles in an old milk jug or liquid laundry detergent bottle until you can dispose of them safely.
You can also look for a clipper that snips the needle off so you can safely throw the rest of the syringe away.
Check your county's hazardous waste policy.
Away from Home
Diabetes should not prevent your child from enjoying family vacations, slumber parties, or trips to Grandma's house.
Babysitter
Everyone who cares for your child – from babysitters to adult relatives – should be trained on the basics of diabetes care and what to do in an emergency.
Telling Others
Being diagnosed with diabetes is a life-changing event. For many kids, it takes time to accept their new reality and be ready to share with others.
Teens & Parties
Teens generally want more independence when it comes to food and fun.
Dating
Teenagers have competing needs, including the need to choose who they want to tell about their diabetes and who they do not.
Driving
Getting that first driver's license is a huge milestone for your teen. Safety behind the wheel should be everyone's number one priority.
Food & Fun
Diabetes doesn't mean doing without your family's traditional holiday treats, birthday parties, or outings to your favorite restaurant. With a little planning, a good time can still be had by all!
Planes
Traveling to another state or country by plane can be stressful for anyone. Here are some tips to help make your next big trip go as smooth as possible.
Questions to ask your doctor
It's ok to ask your D-team as many questions you want – even the ones you may feel silly for asking!
School
Before sending your child back to school, notify the school, especially the principal, school nurse and teacher(s) that your child has diabetes.
Sports & Recreation
Exercise and physical activity are good for everyone and especially important for children with diabetes. Just remember to check BG often – before and after exercise.
