Health Library


  • Diabetes: Checking Your Blood Sugar

    Describes monitoring blood sugar levels in those with diabetes. Gives step-by-step instructions. Covers how to record testing results and how to prevent sore fingers.

  • Diabetes: Checking Your Feet

    When you have diabetes, you'll need to check your feet every day. Look at all areas of your feet, including between your toes. Use a handheld mirror or a magnifying mirror attached to the bathroom wall near the baseboard to inspect your feet. If...

  • Diabetes: Steps for Foot-Washing

    Taking good care of your feet is an important part of the daily routine when you have diabetes. Post this list of steps for proper foot-washing and foot care in your bathroom. Use warm (not hot) water. Check the water temperature with your wrists,

  • Checklist for Shoes and Socks That Fit Well

    When you have diabetes, it's important to wear shoes that fit well and protect your feet. Here are some tips for choosing shoes. Choose shoes that fit well. To ensure a good fit: Buy shoes in the evening when your feet are more likely to be swollen.

  • Diabetes: Dealing With Low Blood Sugar From Insulin or Medicine

    If you take insulin or certain diabetes pills that lower blood sugar, your blood sugar may get too low at times. Low blood sugar can happen if you: Take too much diabetes medicine in a day, take your doses too close together, or take your full dose...

  • Treating Low Blood Sugar

    Follow these steps when your blood sugar level is below your target range (usually below 70 mg/dL). Share treatment instructions with your partner, coworkers, and friends. They can help if you are too weak or confused to treat your low blood sugar.

  • Quick-Sugar Foods

    If you are at risk for low blood sugar levels because of diabetes or some other health condition, you need to keep some type of quick-sugar food with you at all times. These foods can quickly raise your blood sugar level. Eating quick-sugar food...

  • Diabetes: Preventing High Blood Sugar Emergencies

    Discusses preventing high blood sugar (hyperglycemia) problems in a person with diabetes. Discusses treating infections early, being prepared, and drinking plenty of liquids.

  • Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA)

    Discusses diabetic ketoacidosis. Covers causes and symptoms. Discusses how it is diagnosed and treatment options.

  • Medicine or Other Drug Use and Sleep Problems

    Many prescription and nonprescription medicines can cause sleep problems. A few examples of these medicines are: Antidepressants. Cold medicines. Steroid medicines. Nonprescription diet aids. Other substances Other substances that may cause sleep problems include: Alcohol. At first, drinking alcohol may cause...