How I Manage T2D With Telehealth and Technology
As someone who has been living with type 2 diabetes for over 5 years, I am constantly looking for new ways to stay healthy. Recent technological advancements have opened the door to many possibilities in diabetes management.
With the help of increasingly accessible telehealth and technology, I now manage my diabetes and live a healthier life more effectively. Let me share with you some of the ways I use telehealth and technology to help manage my diabetes.
How I monitor my glucose levels
The most important way I use telehealth and technology is to monitor my glucose levels. I use a continuous glucose monitor that connects directly to an app on my phone. This allows me to easily track my blood sugar readings throughout the day to ensure they remain within a healthy range. My readings are also shared directly with my doctor, allowing her to better understand how different lifestyle factors affect my numbers.
Another great feature of using a continuous glucose monitor is that I can quickly inform my loved ones of my glucose levels by sharing my readings with the touch of a button from the app.
Contact your insurance provider or doctor to determine your continuous glucose monitor options.
Using a fitness tracking app
Staying physically active is especially important to me as someone living with diabetes, so tracking my physical activity each day with a fitness app has become an essential part of my routine. I find it incredibly helpful to have an accurate record of how much exercise I get during the week – and luckily, many free or paid apps out there make it easier!
Keeping track of this information means that I can stay on top of my blood sugar levels, which significantly impacts my day-to-day well-being. Using technology, I can take control of my health in clever and sustainable ways.
Telehealth: virtual doctors visits
Connecting with my doctor virtually using telehealth services has revolutionized how I manage my diabetes and overall health. I no longer have to take chunks of time out of my workday to travel to my doctor's office for regular appointments to discuss changes or receive help. Instead, I can jump on a video chat anytime, from almost anywhere, and get the guidance I need.
The convenience of having this type of service available is incredible and makes taking care of myself easier than ever before. I'm so thankful that telehealth has become an option — it's significantly improved my quality of life because of its flexibility.
Living with type 2 diabetes can be challenging
Living with type 2 diabetes can be challenging, but thanks to advances in telehealth and technology, it doesn't have to be overwhelming! When I was first diagnosed, I remember being consumed with overwhelming feelings and a lack of confidence in navigating my care.
By taking advantage of tools like a continuous glucose monitor (CGM), a fitness tracking app, or exploring telehealth services, I can actively monitor my condition daily to stay ahead of any potential health complications in the future. Check with your doctor to see if these new tools can fit into your diabetes management plan. In my opinion, it's been worthwhile to invest in these tools to take control of my type 2 diabetes.
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