BRIDGTON — Bridgton Hospital’s Diabetes Clinic will present its three-part diabetes self-management classes beginning Thursday, June 16.

Classes are designed to give general information about diabetes and to help the patient maintain their diabetes. Courses also introduce patients to a diabetes support system.

Following sign up, participants will receive “Your Diabetes Guidebook,” where they can read corresponding chapters before each class.

Preregistration is required for those attending.

Thursday, June 16: 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Linda Russell, registered dietitian and certified diabetes educator, will begin the first class by discussing meal plans and diabetes and will review carbohydrate counting. Her presentation will include cooking tips, menu planning, dining out guidelines, glucose monitoring and dietary management for glucose control. Russell will also review preconception care, pregnancy and gestational diabetes management.

Monday, June 20: 9 a.m. to noon. Elaine Drew, registered nurse and certified diabetes educator, will provide an overview of diabetes. This will include the disease process and treatment options, hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) and diabetic ketoacidosis (dangerously high blood sugar). Karen Bogdon, occupational therapist, will discuss the importance of daily exercise and how it can help improve blood sugars, decrease weight and improve overall well-being. Pharmacist Jen Cyr will discuss medications that can help control symptoms. This includes oral blood glucose-lowering agents, insulin therapy, blood pressure and cholesterol-lowering medications.

Wednesday, June 22: 9 a.m. to noon. Optometrist Thomas Gordon will discuss eye care and diabetes, including cataracts, glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy. This class will also cover lab tests, complications, psychosocial adjustment, goal-setting and problem solving, as well as preventing, detecting and treating acute complications such as hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).

A dietary consultation is required, and should be done before the classes begin. Consultations can be made by calling 207-647-6062.

All classes will be held in the large conference room at Bridgton Hospital. Participants are encouraged to bring a relative or friend with them.

FMI, register: 207-647-6064.