Diabetes is a chronic illness that requires almost lifelong treatment, often causing significant concern upon diagnosis. However, this condition can be effectively managed, and blood sugar levels stabilized, with proper medication.

In people with diabetes, the body either does not produce enough insulin or uses it inefficiently. Treatment medications help control blood sugar and maintain metabolic stability. Most diabetes medications, when used as prescribed and at the correct dosage, do not harm the liver or kidneys. Instead, these medications stabilize blood sugar, improve symptoms, and help prevent complications that could affect these vital organs. Some diabetes medications can also support weight management and improve metabolic disorders.

The true danger lies in prolonged high blood sugar, which can damage blood vessels, promote atherosclerosis, and increase the risk of hypertension, coronary artery disease, myocardial infarction, and stroke. The kidneys are particularly vulnerable; uncontrolled high blood sugar gradually destroys the kidney's microvessels, impairing their filtering function.

Doctor Ngan advises a patient with diabetes. *Illustration: Tam Anh General Hospital*

Persistent high blood sugar also directly affects the nervous system and small blood vessels in the eyes, leading to numbness and tingling in the extremities, and reduced vision.

Instead of discontinuing medication due to concerns about side effects, diabetes patients should undergo regular examinations and monitor important indicators. These include blood sugar, creatinine, estimated glomerular filtration rate (egfr), blood pressure, blood lipids, and weight. Based on a comprehensive assessment, doctors will decide whether to continue current medication, adjust dosages, or switch medications. This approach aims to stabilize blood sugar, reduce complication risks, protect the heart and kidneys, and manage weight effectively.

In addition to taking medication as prescribed, diabetes patients need to maintain a healthy lifestyle for more effective blood sugar control. This includes daily exercise, a balanced diet, sufficient sleep, and stress reduction.

Doctor CKII Tran Thuy Ngan

Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes

Tam Anh General Clinic, District 7