Diabetes Awareness Month
November is National Diabetes Month, a month dedicated to raising awareness about diabetes and its signs and symptoms.
Clinical Negligence Paralegal Shreya Marya and Trainee Solicitor Ying Tang are currently assisting on clinical negligence claims relating to diabetes.
November is Diabetes Awareness Month, and as a type 1 diabetic herself, Shreya believes it is important to bring attention to a condition which affects such a vast amount of the population. Living with diabetes is difficult, but with the right care and knowledge it can be managed and allow for a normal life.
Complications from diabetes can unfortunately occur, and it is therefore important to be aware of the checks and appointments you are entitled to, and the level of care you should be receiving. If not, you may be able to make a clinical negligence claim.
Types of Diabetes
There are three main types of diabetes:
- Type 1
- Type 2
- Gestational
Type 1 diabetes occurs when the body attacks the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. Without insulin, glucose (sugar) goes into the bloodstream and causes high blood sugar, which can lead to health complications in the long-term. Type 1 diabetes is typically hereditary and most commonly diagnosed in children, though can occur later in life too. It is managed through insulin injections and frequent monitoring of blood sugar levels.
Type 2 diabetes is often linked to poor diet and lifestyle choices, though family history can increase the risk. The pancreas either isn’t producing enough insulin or the insulin is not working properly. This is called insulin resistance. Type 2 diabetics also monitor their blood sugar levels and can manage their condition through medication such as Metformin and by making healthier lifestyle choices.
Gestational diabetes develops in women during pregnancy. The pregnancy has to be managed carefully to prevent high blood sugar causing complications in either mother or baby.
Symptoms
The main symptoms of undiagnosed diabetes are:
- Increased thirst
- Increased frequency of urination
- Tiredness and fatigue
- Weight loss
It is important to contact your GP or NHS111 if you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, particularly for a prolonged period of time. You can ask your doctor for a blood test and a urine test to check your blood sugar levels.
Leaving symptoms unchecked can lead to higher blood sugar levels in the long-term. This can cause diabetic ketoacidosis which can, in some cases, result in a coma. High blood sugar left untreated can also lead to long-term health complications.
Key Statistics
According to Diabetes UK, 4.3 million people in the UK are now living with diabetes, with an additional 850,000 people in the UK yet to be diagnosed. Of this figure, Type 2 diabetes diagnoses make up 90%, around 8% is Type 1 diabetes and other forms make up 2%
Without the right care and support, people with all types of diabetes can be at risk of developing serious complications. Every week, diabetes leads to 184 amputations, more than 770 strokes, 590 heart attacks and 2,300 cases of heart failure.
Your Rights and When to Make a Clinical Negligence Claim
It is important to attend all appointments related to diabetes to ensure your condition is being well-managed and you are not at risk of any complications.
An annual review should be carried out with an Endocrinologist, to review your blood sugar levels and discuss any potential changes to your treatment. You should be contacted for an appointment, but speak to your GP if you feel an annual review is overdue, or if you need advice from your Consultant.
An eye screening should also take place yearly to check for diabetic retinopathy; a condition caused by consistently high blood sugar which can damage the blood vessels in your eyes and affect your sight.
It is integral to have your feet checked frequently too, as poor management of diabetes can cause nerve damage in the legs and feet, which may lead to neuropathy. In the worst-case scenario, this can result in amputation. Having regular checks with your Consultant will ensure any issues are caught at an early stage, and referrals can be put in place.
Diabetics should be receiving blood tests at regular intervals, typically every 6 months, as there is an increased risk of developing conditions such as Coeliac Disease, or issues with the thyroid. Regular monitoring is important to ensure any conditions that do develop are diagnosed and treated promptly to avoid any further health issues.
Quite often, a clinical negligence claim relating to diabetes arises from failures by medical professionals in the management of diabetes. This can lead to delays in diagnosis of diabetes complications and can cause further injuries.
If your diabetes is being mismanaged by your GP or the hospital, and you are experiencing further symptoms which could have been avoided if not for the mismanagement, then you may be entitled to make a clinical negligence claim.
If you think you have a potential claim for clinical negligence get in touch with our medical negligence lawyers as soon as possible. You can make an enquiry online, phone us or request a call back at a convenient time.
Charities
Here are some registered charities that provide support to those with diabetes. Not only is there a hub for people with diabetes to share their stories, but they also provide community and emotional support and provide advice on healthy eating and lifestyle habits for people living with diabetes.