Managing type 2 diabetes

This month we share an article published in WA's Diabetes Matters magazine.

Zara says that being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes two years ago was a huge wake-up call that made her realise how quickly life can change.

I had been suffering from thrush that wouldn't go away. It became so painful that I decided to see a doctor. I found that when I ate anything high in sugar the thrush would flare up, and when I told my doctor this, he asked if anyone in my family had diabetes. I confirmed they did.

I was overdue for my regular diabetes check, which is usually clear, so I didn't think anything of it when she ran the blood tests. I was certain I wasn't going to develope diabetes, but this time my results came back positive for type 2. I felt like someone had punched me in the stomach and winded me. It was a huge wake up call.

My diagnosis has made me more aware of the importance of looking after myself - eating healthily, exercising and having regular medical checks. I've lost a lot of weight which has helped to bring my glucose levels down to a healthy range and my eating habits have improved. I also feel like my moods are much more level and I'm happier than I was before my diagnosis.

My advice to people is that if you have a loved one, or know someone, who has diabetes, read up n what it is and speak with that person about how you can best support them. Knowing that they have the support of family and friends is absolutely critical to them managing the condition effectively.

Diabetes Matters is a quarterly magazine costing $6.95 and is packed with personal stories and information. You can find out more here.