Presbyterian | Spring 2022 | Your Story

www.phs.org/centennialcare 3 When you have diabetes, you usually focus on controlling your blood sugar. Keeping your blood sugar in a good range, eating right, and taking your medications is very important to control diabetes. But remember to think “head to toe!” People with diabetes could develop poor circulation and nerve damage. This can cause problems with both your eyes and your feet. The Path for Wellness Diabetes Prevention Program Want to learn more about improving your health? You may be eligible for the Path for Wellness Diabetes Prevention Program. The program is offered at no additional cost to eligible members with prediabetes or certain risk factors for Type 2 diabetes. It is designed to help members: • Lose or manage weight • Get more active • Reduce risk of Type 2 diabetes It’s easy and fun to participate — the program is all by phone or online. The classes are also available in Spanish. Diabetes and your eyes You should see an eye doctor at least once a year or any time you have eye problems. You should also check the blood vessels in your eye. This can be done at the medical office. You can still go to the eye doctor too! Please check the Presbyterian Health Plan Provider Directory at www.phs.org/tools-resources/member/ Pages/php-directory.aspx to find a vision provider near your home. Find out if the program is right for you: Visit phppreventionprogram.goodmeasures.com . Call 1-855-249-8587 . Head-to-toe diabetes care Diabetes and your feet Check your feet every day and ask your healthcare provider to check your feet at each visit. Feet problems can include: ● Dry skin, which can lead to cracks, sores, and infections ● Changes in the shape of the foot and not being able to feel sores that develop To protect your feet: ● Wear cotton or wool socks and shoes that fit well ● Ban the chair! Stand several more minutes a day, like when reading or waiting for appointments ● Exercise regularly to help blood flow to the legs ● Wash your feet daily and dry them well, especially between the toes. Rub lotion on the tops and bottoms. Avoid lotion between the toes, because moisture lets germs grow, and that can lead to infection ● Check your feet and legs every day for cuts, cracks, sores, red spots, swelling, blisters, or other signs of problems ● Call your provider if such wounds are not healing after a day ● Ask your healthcare provider about the best way to care for corns and calluses ● Do not smoke. Smoking reduces blood flow to the feet