Gerri Weiss's husband, Michael, was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes 22 years ago. Thanks to feedback from the Weiss family and other experts, WebMD offers the following ways spouses can help their partners with diabetes. Here are six tips along with a short recap of each one:
Tip No. 1: Offer Help, but Don't Be the Diabetes Police: Gerri had to learn that Michael owns his disease, and it was his decision whether or not to share the numbers flashing from his glucose monitor. Gerri and Michael struck a balance by agreeing he would always share if his blood sugars were "ok" or "not ok", without handing over a detailed printout of his daily blood sugar swings. Gerri learned to nag less and rely on Michael to take care of himself.
Tip No. 2: Adopt Healthy Habits for the Whole Household: The Weiss family ate healthier as a unit, thanks to Michael's stricter diet regimen. Bring diabetic cookbooks into the kitchen or learn how to prepare healthier versions of your favorite meals. Keep junk food out of the house.
Tip No. 3: Help Make Time for Exercise: Exercise regularly with your spouse and you can both benefit. Or offer your spouse assistance in daily errands or other duties to yield a window of time for them to exercise.
Tip No. 4: Educate Yourself: Learn how to treat hypoglycemia and carry glucose tablets or other remedies with you at all times. Do not be afraid to call 911 if your spouse loses consciousness.
Tip No. 5: Be Prepared for Mood Swings: Mood swings can be common in a diabetic, especially when facing low blood sugar. Expect them and do not take it personally. Frequent and/or intense mood swings could signal psychological stress -- open up a conversation and discuss counseling options.
Tip No. 6: If Sexual Problems Arise, Talk About It: Whether erectile dysfunction, vaginal dryness, vaginal infections or just plain exhaustion from low blood sugar is dampening your physical relationship, talk together about the problem. Counseling or even medical advice can provide valuable help.
If you are a spouse of a diabetic or wondering how your spouse can help you with your diabetes, don't miss this article!
