Diabetes is a disease which can damage us literally from head to toe: if not cared for it can cause strokes, blindness, heart disease, kidney failure and serious harm to our legs and feet. Fortunately most of this can be prevented when well managed. People with diabetes need to care for themselves on a daily basis assisted by their health professionals. Fortunately there are many supports available.
Medications related to Diabetes are available to everyone with diabetes free of charge under the Long Term Illness Scheme
Retinal Screening People with diabetes are at risk of developing diabetic retinopathy. This is a common complication of diabetes which affects the small blood vessels in the lining at the back of the eye and can lead to blindness. When the condition is caught early, treatment is effective at reducing or preventing damage to sight. Diabetic Retina Screen offers free, regular diabetic retinopathy screening to people with diabetes aged 12 years and older who are registered with the scheme.
The Diabetes Ireland website run by a patient support group provides useful information in an Irish context
Education for people with Type 2 diabetes (the commonest type) is provided free by the HSE. Places on a course locally can be booked on line here.
We can help you care for your diabetes
Diabetes is diagnosed when blood tests show abnormally high Glucose (sugar) levels in your body. We will work with you to help you manage your condition. We will prescribe medicines, give you advice and encouragement, signpost you to useful services and help you monitor and improve your condition.
Regular checks are required if you have diabetes: this includes checks of weight, blood pressure, kidneys, cholesterol, feet and lifestyle, along with medication adjustments to maintain control of the disease. 2 checks per year are provided free of charge by us to people with Diabetes who have a Medical Card or Doctor visit card under a HSE scheme.