Early Detection Can Help You Manage Your Diabetes

Whether you are newly diagnosed or have been a long time sufferer of diabetes, there are a number of screening tests available that will help you manage your diabetes.  These screening tests can detect diabetes-related complications in the early stages. Early detection and treatment of a diabetes-related complication can help prevent further progression of the disease.
 
By keeping track of your results, the frequency of the following screening tests, and by speaking with your physician regularly, you will be better able to manage your diabetes.

Diabetic Screening Tests:

Glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c):
The HbA1c test shows the average amount of sugar in your blood over the last three months. The results are the most accurate way to determine if your blood sugar is under control, and whether changes to your treatment are needed. This is one of the most important tests used to monitor diabetes and should be taken every 3-6 months or as recommended by your physician.
 
Lipid Profile (cholesterol test):
People with diabetes are more likely to develop heart disease, therefore it’s important to have this test at least once a year and discuss the results with your physician. 

Blood Pressure:
Having high blood pressure along with diabetes can contribute to some diabetes-related complications, such as eye and kidney problems. Make sure to have your blood pressure checked at each physician visit.
 
Dilated Eye Exam:
This test should be completed each year by an ophthalmologist or optometrist. This test differs from a regular eye exam that checks your eyesight. Instead, the Dilated Eye Exam assesses the health of your eyes. An eye care provider will use eye drops to dilate your eyes during this exam.
 
Microalbumin:
The blood vessels in your kidneys act as filters to help remove the waste from your blood and keep good things in, like blood cells and protein. This test assesses whether your kidneys are spilling protein and should be completed once a year.
 
Comprehensive Foot Exam:
Poor glucose control can cause nerve damage, especially in the legs and feet.  This is called diabetic neuropathy and it can result in a loss of normal sensation in the legs and feet.  One way to check if neuropathy is starting to develop is to have your doctor perform a comprehensive foot exam once a year.
 
For further information on managing your diabetes, please visit the American Diabetes Association web site at, www.diabetes.org or the American Heart Association’s web site at www.americanheart.org.