Treatment Methods For Diabetes Mellitus

Exercise Regularly

Diabetes mellitus patients who choose to exercise regularly have a lower risk of cardiovascular disease and can better control their blood glucose and blood pressure naturally and with less medication. Regular physical activity helps the body become more responsive to insulin, and this lowers blood glucose and A1C numbers (a measure of long-term blood glucose). Experts recommend at least 150 minutes of moderate or vigorous activity a week, and diabetes mellitus patients should aim to do more if possible. Examples of beneficial exercises for patients are swimming, ballroom dancing, strength training, brisk walking, jogging, and yoga. In addition to better blood glucose control, regular exercise helps patients lose weight, sleep more soundly, relieve stress, increase energy levels and circulation, and prevent falls.

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Take Medication

While diet and exercise are certainly beneficial, many patients with diabetes mellitus will need to take medication to lower their blood sugar to suitable levels. Oral medications are a common first line of treatment. Alpha-glucosidase inhibitors, SGLT2 inhibitors, sulfonylureas, biguanides, and meglitinides are some examples of the types of oral medicines generally used. Some patients may need to use several of these medicines together to control their symptoms. Side effects of these types of medications are typically mild and include diarrhea, constipation, and nausea.

If adequate control cannot be obtained with oral therapies, doctors may recommend adding insulin or other medications patients can self-administer with specially designed injection pens. For ease of use, the pens are prefilled so patients do not have to handle or even see a needle. Some of the most commonly used injectable medications for diabetes mellitus include exenatide albiglutide, dulaglutide, and liraglutide. These help the body use insulin more effectively, and many are administered just once per week. If insulin is needed, patients may be able to use an insulin pump; this can sometimes be an easier and less invasive method of taking insulin.

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