Reducing Risks for Complications

There is a lot you can do to reduce your risk for complications of diabetes. Complications may involve your heart, blood vessels, feet, eyes, or kidneys. Keeping your blood glucose levels in your target range and your A1C less than 7% are the first steps in preventing complications. Take a look at the list below. Find what you are already doing well. Choose one or two things you can start doing. You'll be taking the right steps to a healthier you!

Take Care of Your Heart and Blood Vessels

• Keep your blood pressure less than 130/80
• Get your LDL (bad) cholesterol checked once a year and keep it under 100 (or under 70 if you have a history of heart disease)
• Be more active
• Lose weight if you need to
• Eat less saturated fat and animal protein, and eat fewer salty foods
• Ask about medicines to lower your blood pressure and cholesterol

Take Care of Your Feet

• Check your feet daily for redness, cracks, cuts or sores; treat cuts immediately
• File your toenails instead of cutting them
• Wear shoes that fit well and don't go barefoot
• Remove your shoes and socks for a foot check at each appointment
• See a foot doctor if you have pain or loss of feeling in your feet

Take Care of Your Eyes

• Have a dilated eye exam every year
• See an eye doctor if you have any pain or problems with your vision
• Keep your blood pressure less than 130/80

Take Care of Your Kidneys

• Get a urine test for "microalbumin" (tiny amounts of protein) at least once a year
• Keep your blood pressure less than 130/80
• Ask about medicines that can help control your microalbumin and your blood pressure

Helpful Hints

• Check your blood glucose levels regularly; know what to do with your results
• Control your blood glucose as best as you can; don't delay insulin if it is necessary
• Take your medicines as prescribed
• If you smoke, stop!
• Ask about taking a daily aspirin
• See your dentist of regular checkups
• Get a flu shot every year
• Ask for referrals to medical specialists if needed for eyes, feet and kidneys; keep your appointments
• Ask for referrals for diabetes education and nutrition counseling

Find more information about diabetes complications in The Joslin Guide to Diabetes available from the Joslin Online Store.