11 Unhelpful Phrases To Avoid Saying To Someone With Diabetes
More than one hundred million American children and adults have diabetes or prediabetes. Because diabetes is so common, it is easy for those who do not have the disease to believe they understand it. In reality, however, their beliefs about diabetes are often misconceptions. These misconceptions are harmful because they make healthy individuals think they know enough about the disease to make judgments about those with diabetes or give them helpful advice. Here are eleven phrases based on misconceptions about diabetes that are insensitive to say to someone who has the disease.
“It's Not A Serious Illness”
This is one of the worst statements to make to those with diabetes. It suggests that they do not suffer or have anything to worry about. Although those who have type 1 or type 2 diabetes may not seem ill, they have a serious medical condition that can cause severe physical complications. There are also psychological effects of having to constantly worry about and regulate blood sugar levels. Those with type 2 diabetes may even face additional obstacles if friends and family believe their condition was self-inflicted through lifestyle choices. When talking to loved ones or acquaintances with diabetes, be sensitive and recognize that they are living with a serious illness.
“Is It The Mild Form?”
Never say this to someone with either type of diabetes because it stems from a popular myth. A common misconception about type 2 diabetes is that it is a milder form of diabetes than type 1 diabetes. However, this is incorrect. Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body does not produce enough insulin or the insulin it produces does not work correctly. In comparison, type 1 diabetes occurs when the body makes little to no insulin. Type 2 diabetes often goes undetected for several years whereas type 1 diabetes can have a sudden onset. If not managed well, both types of diabetes can produce life-threatening complications, such as stroke, amputation, blindness, heart failure, and kidney disease.
“You Ate Too Much Sugar”
This statement stems from the false assumption that diabetes is caused only by eating lots of sugar or maintaining an unhealthy diet. It also suggests that those who have diabetes chose to suffer from the condition. In reality, a variety of factors, some of which are not controllable, increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. In addition, type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition and cannot be prevented. Thus, although a high sugar intake can increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, it is not the only cause of the condition and does not produce type 1 diabetes.
“Why Is Your Outfit Like That?”
This question may stem from genuine curiosity, but it can come across as insensitive. Those who have diabetes and carry an insulin pump must always have it with them even when they are jogging in the morning or enjoying an evening out with colleagues. Therefore, their clothes need to have pockets or a strong waistband to hold the pump in place. Jeggings are a must-have clothing item for some women with diabetes whereas others prefer wearing stripes or bright colors on top to take attention away from the insulin pump. When the pump is visible, it can make those with diabetes feel self-conscious and different from others.
“You Can Handle It On Your Own”
Living with type 1 or type 2 diabetes is challenging, so those who have either condition should not have to cope with it alone. Having a strong support network is vital because it makes it easier to get through the day. When life gets tough, it is comforting to know that there is someone who is willing to listen to complaints and offer advice. It is also helpful when friends or family members keep candy in their purse or home in case of a blood sugar emergency. Studies reveal that the more support and encouragement those with diabetes get from their friends and relatives, the easier it is for them to deal with the illness. Thus, with the support of family and friends, they can live fulfilling lives.
“Do You Exercise?”
Many believe that those with any type of diabetes are weak and cannot engage in moderate or high physical activity. When exercising, the body needs to burn sugar to produce energy. However, just because those with diabetes have difficulty regulating their blood sugar levels does not mean they have to avoid exercise. Due to this misconception, many with diabetes do not play sports, go for extended walks, or engage in aerobic activity. In reality, however, exercise is just as important for them as it for everyone else. Those with diabetes can live a long and healthy life by incorporating physical activity into their everyday routine.
“Can You Eat That?”
Eating is challenging for those with type 1 and type 2 diabetes. They always have to think about the carbohydrate content of what they are going to drink or eat and inject the right insulin dose for it. However, food intake is not the only factor that affects blood sugar levels. Stress and physical activity can also alter the amount of sugar in the blood. For this reason, it is necessary to test blood sugar levels before eating. This makes it possible to determine how much insulin to inject based on current blood sugar levels and estimates of how it will change with food and beverage consumption. It is also important to test blood sugar throughout the day to regulate it between meals.
“At Least Your Condition Is Manageable”
This statement makes many with diabetes feel uncomfortable. Comparing diabetes with other diseases, such cancer, is rarely helpful. Diabetes may not always look as painful as cancer does, and the symptoms may not be as visible, but it is still a serious condition. Diabetes is physically, emotionally, and psychologically challenging. As a result, it is not easy to manage. There is a constant need to weigh food, count carbohydrates, test blood sugar, and administer insulin injections or take medication. It is true that diabetes can be managed effectively. However, coping with the condition and the lifestyle changes it requires is far from easy.
“It Is Easy To Diagnose”
Diagnosing diabetes is not a walk in the park. In some cases, it requires a series of blood tests and countless visits to the doctor before a health care provider can make the diagnosis. Some are diagnosed with diabetes at a young age after being misdiagnosed with another condition. Others are diagnosed later on in life after experiencing several health problems. Being diagnosed with diabetes can be a frightening and traumatic experience, especially if it happens suddenly after an emergency visit to the hospital. It is also stressful to receive a diagnosis and wonder how it will affect one's life.
“Diabetes Does Not Require Math”
Simple activities, such as going to a concert or traveling, can be more difficult for those with diabetes. No matter where they are, they need to regulate their blood sugar level based on food intake, exercise, and medication. Failing to regulate blood sugar properly can lead to hypoglycemic attacks (having an abnormally low level of sugar in the blood), which can cause seizures and fainting that require immediate medical care. As a result, making accurate calculations about food intake is critical. Counting the carbohydrate content of each meal and checking blood sugar regularly can prevent or delay complications.
“You Look Normal”
Those with diabetes may look normal, but they must make several changes to their lifestyle to manage their condition. They have to become organized so they can regulate their blood sugar effectively and prevent hypoglycemic attacks. They must also keep snacks or glucose gels in their bags to manage symptoms, such as headaches, numbness, shakiness, confusion, and hot flashes. In addition, those who live alone may need to wear a panic alarm at night in case they experience a severe hypoglycemic attack. As a result, the lifestyle of someone with diabetes is far from normal.