Regular Yearly Tests for Diabetes | Dr Suman R

Regular Yearly Tests for Diabetes: Your Simple Guide to Staying Healthy

𝘿𝙧 𝙎𝙪𝙢𝙖𝙣 𝙍

𝘾𝙤𝙣𝙨𝙪𝙡𝙩𝙖𝙣𝙩 𝘿𝙞𝙖𝙗𝙚𝙩𝙤𝙡𝙤𝙜𝙞𝙨𝙩

Madhumeha Diabetes Center

Living with diabetes is a lifelong journey, and regular yearly tests act like street-lights along the way. They help you see what’s happening inside the body, even when you feel perfectly fine. Diabetes is often silent in the early stages of complications, so timely testing becomes your strongest shield against future problems.

This guide is written in simple, practical language so it can be used easily for clinic websites, social media posts, or patient handouts.

Why yearly tests matter

Diabetes can quietly affect the eyes, kidneys, heart, nerves, teeth, and feet. Most of this damage starts slowly and without pain. Annual check-ups catch these changes early, when they are still reversible or manageable. Early detection means fewer medicines, fewer complications, and a healthier, more confident life.

1. Blood sugar control tests

HbA1c:

This gives the average sugar level of the past 2–3 months. Many adults are advised to keep it near a doctor-decided target, often around 7%. Most patients check it 2–4 times a year, but even a yearly test helps during a full review.

Fasting and post-meal sugars:

These show the current day-to-day sugar control and help fine-tune medicines and diet. Many patients check them more often, but they are also part of an annual health check.

2. Blood pressure and heart health

Blood pressure:

High BP is extremely common in diabetes. It increases the risk of heart attacks, strokes, kidney failure, and eye disease. Doctors generally aim for targets like 130/80 or 140/90 mmHg depending on individual health needs.

Lipid profile (cholesterol tests):

This includes LDL, HDL, total cholesterol, and triglycerides. Keeping LDL low is especially important for heart protection. A yearly lipid profile helps decide lifestyle changes and whether medicines like statins are needed.

3. Kidney function tests

Serum creatinine and eGFR:

These measure how well your kidneys filter blood. Even small changes can signal early diabetic kidney disease.

Urine albumin (microalbumin/ACR):

This detects tiny amounts of protein leakage—one of the earliest signs of kidney trouble. It can show problems long before creatinine rises, making it one of the most important annual tests.

4. Eye examination

A dilated eye exam helps detect diabetic retinopathy, cataract, and glaucoma. These conditions are often silent until they become serious. People with diabetes should get an eye check every 1–2 years, or yearly if any abnormalities are found.

5. Foot and nerve check

Foot examination:

Diabetes can reduce sensation and blood flow in the feet. This increases the risk of infections and ulcers. A yearly foot exam checks nerves, pulses, skin, and nails.

Neuropathy tests:

Simple tools like a monofilament or tuning fork help detect early nerve damage. Early detection prevents ulcers and amputations.

6. Dental and oral health

People with diabetes are more likely to develop gum infections and loose teeth. Poor oral health can also worsen sugar levels. A yearly dental visit and good brushing habits protect both teeth and diabetes control.

7. Weight and general health checks

Weight, BMI, waist size:

Tracking these helps assess obesity-related risks. Even small weight loss can improve sugar levels, blood pressure, and cholesterol.

Full physical exam:

This includes medication review, mental health discussion, vaccination updates, and screening for thyroid or vitamin deficiencies when needed.

8. Additional tests when required

Some patients may need extra tests such as ECG, hormone tests, bone scans, or nerve studies, depending on age, symptoms, and duration of diabetes. Doctors advise these based on individual risk.

“Your Yearly Diabetes Health Checklist”

These tests help prevent kidney failure, heart disease, blindness, and foot complications. Regular monitoring gives you more control over your health and helps you enjoy a long, active life with diabetes.

Read More

A- Z of Sleep Apnea By Dr Manohar KN

A–Z of Sleep Apnea

Dr Manohar K N

Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder that occurs when a person's breathing is interrupted during sleep. In India, it remains significantly underdiagnosed despite its prevalence. This comprehensive A-Z guide provides practical information about recognizing symptoms, understanding risks, and finding effective treatments for better breathing and quality sleep.

A-Z Guide to Sleep Apnea

A

Airway Obstruction

Sleep apnea usually begins when the upper airway narrows or collapses during sleep. Many Indians naturally have smaller jaw structures and crowded airways, making obstruction more likely even at lower body weights.

B

Breathing Pauses

These brief stops in breathing may last 10–30 seconds and repeat through the night. The body wakes up just enough to restore airflow, breaking the sleep cycle without you remembering it.

C

CPAP

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machines deliver steady air pressure that keeps the airway open. They remain the gold standard for moderate to severe sleep apnea and dramatically improve daytime energy and long-term heart health.

D

Daytime Fatigue

Waking up tired despite "sleeping" for hours is a red flag. Because the brain keeps getting disrupted during breathing pauses, deep restorative sleep becomes almost impossible.

E

Early Detection

Identifying symptoms like loud snoring, choking episodes or morning headaches helps avoid years of silent damage. Early diagnosis reduces risks of hypertension, diabetes and heart strain.

F

Family History

Genetics strongly influence airway shape and breathing patterns. If parents or siblings have sleep apnea, monitoring your own sleep quality becomes especially important.

G

Gender Factors

Men are diagnosed more often, yet many women remain overlooked because their symptoms may appear milder. After menopause, the hormonal shift raises women's risk significantly.

H

High Blood Pressure

Repeated oxygen drops during apnea episodes stress the cardiovascular system. This chronic strain contributes to India's growing rates of hypertension, especially in midlife adults.

I

India's Rising Risk

Late-night work, screen use, urban air pollution and rising obesity make sleep apnea increasingly common. Many people treat snoring as harmless, delaying diagnosis for years.

J

Jaw Structure

A smaller jaw or a recessed chin reduces space in the oral cavity, making airway collapse more likely. Orthodontists and dentists often spot early structural clues long before symptoms appear.

K

Known Triggers

Heavy dinners, alcohol, sedatives and smoking loosen airway muscles. Avoiding these triggers—especially a few hours before bedtime—helps keep breathing steadier through the night.

L

Lifestyle Changes

Regular movement, maintaining a healthy weight, and keeping sleep timings consistent can significantly reduce mild sleep apnea. Improving bedtime habits often enhances CPAP results too.

M

Mouth Breathing

Sleeping with the mouth open dries tissues and increases airway collapse. Training nasal breathing through simple techniques or nasal strips improves airflow and sleep quality.

N

Nasal Congestion

Blocked nasal passages push the body to breathe through the mouth, worsening apnea. Treating allergies, sinusitis and pollution-related irritation helps keep airways clear.

O

Oxygen Drops

Each apnea episode reduces oxygen flow to the brain and organs. These repeated dips force the body into emergency mode, increasing long-term risks for metabolic and cardiac issues.

P

Positional Therapy

Sleeping on the back worsens airway collapse, but side-sleeping often reduces apnea severity. Special pillows or simple positional reminders help reinforce this habit.

Q

Quality Sleep

True rest requires stable, uninterrupted breathing. Treating apnea improves deep sleep stages, which boosts memory, mood, immune function and emotional balance.

R

Risk of Heart Disease

Untreated apnea pushes the heart to work harder every night. Over time, this increases risk of arrhythmias, strokes and heart attacks—especially in people with existing blood pressure issues.

S

Snoring Warning

Persistent, loud snoring is often the first visible sign of airway resistance. While not all snorers have apnea, consistent snoring should prompt a medical evaluation.

T

Tests for Diagnosis

Sleep studies track breathing, oxygen levels and sleep stages overnight. Home sleep testing has become common in India, making diagnosis accessible without overnight hospital stays.

U

Untreated Consequences

Ignoring apnea affects concentration, memory, mood and metabolism. The cumulative stress on the body can quietly worsen diabetes and hypertension.

V

Vital Signs Monitoring

Tracking oxygen levels, blood pressure and sleep quality helps measure improvement. Wearable technologies and home monitors make follow-up easier than ever.

W

Weight Management

Fat around the neck and abdomen increases airway pressure. Even a modest reduction in weight can dramatically improve symptoms, especially in centrally obese individuals.

X

Extended Snoring Episodes

Long, noisy snoring stretches often indicate deeper airway blockages. Families often notice these patterns before the person experiencing them does.

Y

Your Sleep Environment

Dust, humidity and noise can worsen nighttime breathing. A cool, clean bedroom with reduced allergens supports easier airflow and calmer sleep.

Z

Zero Neglect Attitude

Sleep apnea is manageable, but only when acknowledged. Taking it seriously restores energy, protects long-term health and renews day-to-day wellbeing.

Sleep Apnea Risk Assessment

How loudly do you snore?

Not at all

Slightly

Moderately

Very loudly

How often do you feel tired during the day?

Never

Sometimes

Often

Almost always

Has anyone observed you stop breathing during sleep?

Never

Rarely

Sometimes

Frequently

What is your approximate BMI?

Below 25

25-29.9

30-34.9

35 or above

Do you have high blood pressure?

No

Borderline

Yes, controlled

Yes, uncontrolled

0

Category

Message

Recommendations

Take Control of Your Sleep Health

Sleep apnea is a serious but treatable condition that affects millions of Indians. By recognizing the symptoms and seeking proper diagnosis, you can restore your energy, protect your long-term health, and improve your quality of life. Don't ignore the signs—take action today for better breathing and better sleep.

Video Resources on Sleep Apnea

Understanding Sleep Apnea: Symptoms and Diagnosis

CPAP Therapy: How It Works and Benefits

Sleep Apnea Treatment Options and Lifestyle Changes

Read More

Stop Ignoring These Signs in Seniors! Geriatric Expert Explains

As India's population ages, conversations around senior health are no longer optional—they're essential. A recent discussion featuring geriatric specialist Dr.Nishmita sheds light on the often-overlooked signs and needs of older adults. Her message is clear: we must shift from merely adding years to life, to adding life to years.

Understanding Geriatrics

Geriatrics is a medical specialty devoted to the health and well-being of older adults. Although the term has been around for decades, awareness has only recently begun to rise as longevity increases. India's average life expectancy has climbed from roughly 40 years at independence to about 70 today.

The real goal of geriatrics isn't simply extending life—it's promoting independence and functionality throughout the senior years.

What Healthy Aging Really Means

Healthy aging is not measured by lifespan alone. It's the ability to move into the later decades of life without accumulating multiple diseases or prolonged disability. Dr. Nishmita stresses the idea of "compression of morbidity," meaning the period of illness should be as short as possible compared to the years of healthy living.

The process begins much earlier than most people expect. Proactive health habits during youth and middle age play a major role in shaping the quality of life after 60.

The Importance of Functional Independence

Ask seniors what troubles them most, and many won't mention chronic disease—they'll mention dependency. Losing the ability to perform daily tasks such as bathing, dressing, or using the restroom can be deeply distressing.

Preparing for functional independence shouldn't start at 60; it should begin in the 30s. Dr. Nishmita believes that introducing concepts of healthy aging in schools can create a ripple effect, benefiting both younger and older generations.

Lifestyle Habits That Must Change After 60

Many seniors continue dietary and lifestyle habits from a time when life was physically demanding. Today, with reduced activity levels, the same habits can work against them. Two areas need immediate attention:

Protein Intake:

Older adults often avoid protein due to misconceptions, but their bodies actually need more of it.

Physical Activity:

Daily walks, while helpful, are not enough. Seniors need moderate-intensity exercise—where breathing quickens but conversation remains possible—for at least 30 minutes a day, five days a week.

Why Protein Matters So Much for Seniors

Dr. Nishmita recommends 1 to 1.2 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight every day. This helps counter sarcopenia (age-related muscle loss), boosts insulin sensitivity, supports joint strength, and reduces fluctuations in blood sugar.

Some seniors struggle with digestion, especially with dairy-based proteins like whey. Plant-based sources—pulses, soy, nuts, seeds—are excellent alternatives.

A persistent myth claims that higher protein intake leads to weight gain. In reality, increased muscle mass can slightly increase weight, but it reflects healthier body composition rather than fat gain.

Building a Balanced Plate

A balanced diet becomes simpler with the right visual cues. Dr. Nishmita suggests dividing the plate into:

50%

Vegetables or fiber-rich foods

25%

Low glycemic index carbohydrates

25%

Lean protein

Adding a variety of colors—greens, reds, yellows—ensures a mix of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants needed for aging bodies.

Strength Training: More Than a Trend

Social media often promotes strength training as a cure-all for blood pressure and blood sugar. While results vary and should be individualized, the benefits for seniors are undeniable. Strength training supports bone density, maintains muscle mass, and improves insulin resistance.

Even simple exercises like squats or sit-to-stand movements offer measurable benefits. The principle of progressive overload—gradually increasing the challenge—is especially effective for older adults when done safely.

The Often-Ignored Side: Mental and Social Well-Being

Not all seniors are outgoing or eager to join group activities. Many prefer quiet routines and household responsibilities. Still, mental stimulation and social interaction are crucial for brain health and emotional balance.

Engaging with younger family members, joining peer groups, or participating in community activities can help maintain cognitive strength. Addressing hearing and vision issues early is vital, as sensory decline often leads to social withdrawal and loneliness.

A supportive social circle—whether for walks, conversations, or shared interests—can greatly improve quality of life.

Conclusion

Healthy aging is a shared responsibility. Dr. Nishmita's insights highlight the need for early lifestyle changes, balanced nutrition, regular exercise, and meaningful social interaction. Families and caregivers play a pivotal role in encouraging seniors to embrace these changes.

By recognizing early signs and adapting proactively, we can help older adults enjoy not just longer lives, but richer, more independent ones.

Read More

Managing Diabetes During Winter | Dr Suman R

Managing Diabetes During Winter

Dr Suman R

Winter ReadinessWhy cold months change blood sugar & what to watch

Winter affects lifestyle, diet and physiology — all important for people living with diabetes. This guide outlines challenges and clear, actionable tips tailored to the Indian winter season.

Quick glance

Monitor more • Stay active indoors • Prioritize hydration • Protect skin & feet

Why Winter Impacts Diabetes

Cold triggers hormonal and behavioural changes that can raise or destabilize blood glucose.

• Stress hormones rise — cortisol & adrenaline can increase glucose production in the liver.
• Reduced insulin sensitivity — your dose needs may change in colder months.
• Lifestyle changes — less activity, festival foods and dehydration complicate control.

Key Winter Challenges for Indian Patients

• Increased blood sugar fluctuations
• Reduced physical activity
• Cravings for carbohydrate-rich sweets

• Dehydration from lower water intake
• Dry, cracked skin & infection risk
• Hypoglycemia risk with changing insulin sensitivity

Effective Tips for Winter Diabetes Management

1. Monitor Blood Sugar More Frequently
   Use CGMS or check multiple times daily to spot winter-driven fluctuations early.
2. Stay Physically Active
   Prefer indoor routines — yoga, aerobics, resistance bands, or short midday walks when temperature is warmer.
3. Maintain a Balanced, Nutritious Diet
   Choose seasonal vegetables, whole grains, soups and lean proteins. Manage portions of traditional sweets rather than fully avoiding celebrations.
4. Keep Hydrated
   Warm herbal teas or infused water count — avoid sugary drinks that spike glucose.
5. Take Extra Care of Skin and Feet
   Moisturize daily, inspect feet for wounds, wear warm socks and avoid walking barefoot to lower infection risk.
6. Plan for Holiday Indulgences
   Practice portion control — small servings of sweets with a balanced meal reduces spikes.
7. Stay Prepared for Emergencies
   Keep an emergency kit with insulin, batteries/chargers for devices, test strips and non-perishable snacks.
8. Get Vaccinated
   Ensure flu and other recommended vaccines are up to date to avoid respiratory infections that complicate diabetes.

Summary

Winter calls for deliberate adjustments: frequent monitoring, indoor activity, balanced seasonal meals, hydration, skin & foot care, mindful festive eating and emergency readiness. These measures help people with diabetes in India maintain steady blood sugar and reduce complications during the colder months.

Dr Suman R

Consultant Diabetologist
Madhumeha Diabetes Center
Shop No, 375, 42nd Cross Road
opp. Vijaya Bank, 8th Block, Jayanagar
Bengaluru, Karnataka 560070

Read More

 

Understanding the Causes and Types of Obesity: What You Need to Know

Obesity is an escalating health crisis in India, profoundly impacting millions and creating a heavy burden on individuals and the healthcare system. This blog explores the main causes of obesity among Indian people, details different obesity types relevant to India, and highlights current Indian data to enhance awareness and promote preventive measures.

Causes of Obesity in India

India's obesity epidemic is driven by a multifactorial blend of lifestyle changes, diet, genetics, and socioeconomic circumstances:

• Dietary Shifts: Traditional Indian diets have increasingly given way to high-calorie processed and fast foods, laden with fats and sugars. This nutrition transition, combined with increased consumption of sugary beverages and snacks, elevates obesity risk.

• Sedentary Lifestyle: With rapid urbanization, many Indians have moved to less physically active jobs and lifestyles. Increased screen time and reduced physical activity further add to weight gain.

• Genetic and Metabolic Factors: Indians have a genetic predisposition to accumulate visceral fat and develop metabolic conditions such as insulin resistance at lower body mass indexes (BMI). This makes them susceptible to obesity-related complications like diabetes and heart diseases.

• Socioeconomic Influences: Urban populations and wealthier strata show higher obesity rates, but rural areas are catching up due to processed food penetration and sedentary habits. Even low-income families consuming high-carb, low-nutrient staples face rising obesity due to limited access to healthier foods.

• Psychological and Hormonal Factors: Stress, emotional eating, and hormonal imbalances like thyroid disorders and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome can also contribute to obesity.

Current Indian Obesity Data (2025)

According to the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5) and recent studies:

• Approximately 24% of Indian women and 23% of men aged 15-49 are overweight or obese. Obesity prevalence itself is 6.4% among women and 4% among men in this group.

• Rural obesity rates are sharply rising, with overweight or obese rural women increasing from 8.6% to 19.7%, and men from 7.3% to 19.3%.

• Childhood obesity under five years has increased from 2.1% to 3.4% in recent years.

• Metabolic health concerns are alarming: only about 27% of Indian adults are metabolically healthy, meaning over 70% have metabolic abnormalities such as high blood sugar or cholesterol regardless of body size.

• India currently has around 254 million adults with generalized obesity and 351 million with abdominal obesity.

• Economic costs due to obesity-related health issues are projected to rise significantly, reaching an estimated $81.5 billion by 2030.

Types of Obesity in India

• Android Obesity (Central/Abdominal): Fat concentrates mainly around the abdomen, increasing risks for type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and metabolic syndrome. This type is commonly seen in Indian populations.

• Gynoid Obesity: Fat deposits around hips and thighs; less risky metabolically but affects mobility and health.

• Childhood Obesity: Increasingly prevalent due to poor diets and inactivity, putting children at risk for obesity-related diseases early in life.

• Hormonal Obesity: Associated with disorders like thyroid imbalance and PCOS impacting metabolism.

Why Understanding This Matters

India faces a unique obesity profile due to genetic, cultural, and socioeconomic factors. The rise in obesity affects health outcomes by increasing risks for diabetes, heart disease, cancers, and joint disorders. Public awareness, lifestyle modifications focusing on healthier diets and regular exercise, and policy measures such as regulating processed foods are urgently needed to combat this epidemic.

With nearly one-third of adults overweight or obese, and childhood obesity on the rise, comprehensive action from individuals, communities, healthcare providers, and policymakers is critical. Addressing obesity will help reduce the burden of non-communicable diseases and improve quality of life across India.

Dr. Praveen Kumar N S

MBBS, MD (Gen. Med.), DNB (Endocrinology)
Consultant Endocrinologist & Diabetologist
Dr. Praveen's Endocrine Centre
Mysuru, Karnataka. 570009.

Read More