Five Questions to Ask Your CDE

Whether you are newly diagnosed with diabetes or are interested in a refresher, your Certified Diabetes Educator, or CDE, is your guide to diabetes education. He or she is there to help you navigate your way through truths and myths about diabetes care, and to help you do everything possible to keep your diabetes under control. 

Here are a few questions you might want to ask during your next visit, especially if it’s one of your first visits post-diagnosis.

1. How often should I check my blood sugar levels?

Knowing when to check and how often to check your blood is key to maintaining your diabetes. Find out how many times each day you should test yourself, and how the timing of these tests should relate to meal times. If you’re a “veteran”, you might also show your CDE your testing supplies and make sure you’re availing yourself of the latest-greatest technology. 

2. What is considered a “high” or “low” and what should I do for each?

One of the most important things to learn during your diabetes education is the range of “normal” blood sugar levels and the immediate steps to take if your reading is not in that range. In some instances of blood sugar changes, your doctor may recommend physical activity or eating certain kinds of foods, or adjusting your insulin, in order to bring your blood back to a normal level. In other instances of blood sugar spikes or plummets, your doctor or CDE may suggest that you seek immediate medical attention. Knowing what to look for and what to do in each case will give you more confidence, and benefit your overall diabetes education.

3. How important is the food I eat?

Common sense dictates that a well-balanced diet is best for everyone, and this will be especially true for people with diabetes. Vegetables, protein and low-carb fruits and grains will likely be elements of the meal plan recommended by your CDE. This doesn’t mean you can’t have a treat once in a while, or enjoy some of your favorite foods in moderation. Also remember that exercise may play a role in how much food you can eat without causing blood glucose issues, and benefit your overall blood glucose control.

4. What types of medication will I need?

There are a number of medications associated with diabetes and your CDE will explain those that your doctor has prescribed and why. In some instances, you will need to be on the medication for life, but in others, you may only need them based on your blood sugar rates or other health benchmarks.

5. What types of doctors do I need to see?

A variety of specialists are often consulted, to ensure full-body health. During your diabetes education, you'll learn more about side effects and which doctors can help you stay healthy and minimize complications that lead to heart disease, kidney failure, or vision problems.

When it comes to diabetes and other health matters, remember to always check with your doctor before undergoing any medical treatment or taking any particular remedy. Learn more about diabetes education options at Guadalupe Regional Medical Center.