Health eTips

More than 25 million Americans have some type of diabetes, but it’s estimated that about seven million of them don’t even know they have the disease.

“It’s important to pay attention to your health,” says Division of Health Services Director Sara Evers. “Know the signs and symptoms of diseases. Recognize that there are risk factors for ones such as diabetes.”

Diabetes is a group of diseases marked by high blood glucose levels and can lead to serious health consequences and premature death, Evers explains. She says warning signs for diabetes can include increased thirst, increased hunger, a dry mouth, frequent urination, fatigue, headaches, blurred vision and unexplained weight loss. Those with the disease or who experience these symptoms should seek the help of a medical professional to control blood sugar levels through nutrition, lifestyle changes and medication; all which help to lower the risk for complications.

Free Blood Draws to Learn Diabetes Risk
To help St. Charles County residents determine their blood sugar level, the Health Services Clinic offers free blood draws associated with diabetes screenings every Thursday in March. The clinic offers three types of blood glucose test options for $5 each. Appointments are required and can be scheduled from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. by calling 636-949-7484.

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