Access information on common Diabetes, type 2 questions at Consumer Reports Health.

Diabetes, type 2

Questions to ask your doctor

If you've been told you have diabetes, you may want to talk to your doctor to find out more.

Here are some questions that you might want to ask.

Why do I have diabetes?
What type of diabetes do I have?
Can I control my diabetes by eating better, exercising or taking pills?
Will I have to start giving myself insulin injections?
Could the food I eat be making my diabetes worse?
Do I have to stop eating sweet foods?
Should I be checking my blood glucose level myself?
How often do I have to check my blood glucose?
Will I get bouts of low blood sugar? If so, how can I recognize them and how should I treat them?
Can I keep on driving?
Is there anything I can't do?
Should I be exercising more?
Is there anything special I should do before I exercise? (Take less insulin? Eat something, such as a banana?)
Am I at risk of getting any other diseases?
Do I need treatment for my blood pressure?
Do I need treatment for my cholesterol?
How can you help me stop smoking?
What can I do to avoid getting extra problems (complications)?
Are members of my family likely to get this type of diabetes, too? If so, is there anything I can do to protect them?
What should I do before planning to become pregnant?

This information was last updated on May 11, 2009

This information is for educational use only, and is not a substitute for prompt professional medical advice. Readers should always consult a physician or other professional for advice and treatment.
© BMJ Publishing Group Limited 2009. All rights reserved.

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