Key Things to Check to Control Diabetes

Here are some key areas that need checked to help control diabetes. Talk to your doctor and make sure you are getting complete checkups.

A1C
This blood test measures blood sugar control over the past 90 days. The closer your A1C is to that of people who do not have diabetes, the less chance you have of damage occurring to your heart, eyes , kidneys and blood vessels. This should be tested 4 times a year and the goal is to be less than 7 on the A1c scale.
Blood Pressure
High blood pressure (hypertension) can lead to heart attack, heart failure, stroke or kidney failure. Both the AHA and ADA recommend blood pressures less than 130/80. Check your blood pressure often and check with your doctor if it is higher than these numbers.
Foot Inspection
You should check your feet daily for redness, swelling, cracks or calluses. These signs could be warning signs to complications due to having diabetes. In addition, people with diabetes should have there feet inspected by a health care provider every year.
Dilated Retinal (eye) examination
People with diabetes should have a dilated retinal examination every year. Early detection and treatment of changes in your eye can help prevent blindness.
Fasting Lipid Profile
High levels of lipids (fat) in the blood can lead to heart problems. people with diabetes are at a higher risk for heart related problems and strokes. Lipid profile test should be done once a year. If diet and exercise can not control high fat in blood, medications may be needed.
Urinary Protein/Micro albumin
Measuring the urinary protein will you and your doctor information about the health of your kidneys and blood vessels. This should be done once a year.

These are measure and checks to see if your diabetes is being controlled and your body is working properly. Watching these areas of your health can reduce many of the complications that come from diabetes.