Diabetes is a chronic condition where the body has a hard time maintaining healthy levels of glucose in the blood. For our bodies to work effectively, we need to convert glucose into energy through a hormone called insulin. Insulin helps to regulate sugar levels found in our blood. When you have diabetes, your body may have trouble recognising insulin, insulin is no longer produced or is not produced in sufficient amounts which leads to high sugar levels in the blood resulting in a range of short-term and long-term complications.

There are two different types of diabetes: type 1 and type 2. There is no cure for either type, but it can be managed through daily self-care to minimise any complications. Management includes diet, exercise, weight control, blood pressure monitoring, regular blood tests and taking prescribed medications, if needed, as directed.

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition, defined by the pancreas not producing enough or any insulin at all. It is more commonly diagnosed in children and young adults, though it can occur at any age.

Type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition, defined by when insulin is not working effectively, the pancreas is not producing sufficient insulin or a combination of the two. It can be related to ageing, family history, medications and lifestyle factors like obesity and inactivity.

There are both oral tablets and insulin injections prescribed to help manage diabetes. If you’re able to control your blood sugar levels through lifestyle management and oral medications, then you minimise the future need for insulin injections. If you do need insulin, regular check-ups will allow for appropriate and safe initiation when needed.

Even if you are feeling well, it's important to take your medication exactly as prescribed in order to reduce the risk of experiencing diabetic complications. It's also important to take measures for lifestyle management. This means ensuring you’re eating a healthy diet, exercising, not smoking, keeping within a healthy weight range and, if you consume alcohol, that you’re doing it safely.

In order to receive treatment for diabetes through Rosemary, you must already have seen a doctor, received a diagnosis and be prescribed your regular treatment by your general practitioner. An online doctor in Australia on our platform can help you access your treatment and is available to chat online about your progress whenever you need.