Diabetes Monitoring

Diabetes is a chronic condition that requires ongoing care and attention. Without the proper treatment, care and support, you could have life-changing complications.

At Banner Health, your health is our top priority. Read on to understand why regular health screenings are so important to your health and well-being.

Why are regular check-ups so important?

Part of managing your diabetes is attending check-ups with your diabetes care team. These visits help to make sure your diabetes does not lead to further problems like heart disease, nerve damage, kidney problems and visual impairment (blindness).

Regular check-ups for diabetes can vary based on factors such as the type of diabetes, how long you’ve had it, your overall health and your treatment plan. When newly diagnosed, you may see your health care provider and diabetes care team more often until your diabetes is stable.

Here’s what you can generally expect during your check-up:

• Check for overall health: Your provider will check your weight, blood pressure and cholesterol to make sure everything is OK. They will also check your injection sites.
• A1C test: The A1C test gives you a big picture of your average blood sugar (glucose) levels over time. It helps them figure out if what you are doing to manage your diabetes is working or if it needs to be changed.
• Medication review: Your provider will go over your prescribed insulin and medications. Regular check-ups help them determine the right dosage and if adjustments or changes need to be made.
• Advice on lifestyle changes: Your provider may give you advice on things like healthy eating, exercise or other lifestyle changes to keep you healthy. 
• Discuss any questions or concerns: Managing diabetes can be confusing, especially in the beginning. Regular check-ups give you a chance to have your questions answered. It also gives you an opportunity to discuss your emotional well-being and seek support or counseling if needed. 

Other important screenings for diabetes care

Diabetes can affect different parts of the body, like your eyes, feet, kidneys and oral health. The following are also important tests and screenings you should regularly have throughout the year:

• Eye exam: Diabetes can change your vision. An eye doctor (optometrist or ophthalmologist) will examine your eyes for signs of diabetic eye disease, including diabetic retinopathy and other eye problems like cataracts or glaucoma. 
  • How often: It depends on the type of diabetes you have and how long you’ve had it. Some may see the specialist once a year, while others may see them more often if they show signs of eye disease.
• Foot exam: Diabetes can damage the nerves in your feet. This can make it easy for you to injure yourself without knowing it, which can make you more prone to infection. Your health care provider will test for signs of any problems, including loss of feeling, ulcers or infection.
  • How often: These checks are done during your regular check-up. Your provider will talk to you about how to look after your feet and any signs to watch for at home. Let your provider know immediately if you have cuts, bruises or any numbness in your feet.
• Kidney exam: Diabetes can increase your risk for kidney disease. A simple urine test called the albumin-to-creatinine ratio (ACR) looks for signs that albumin (a protein) is leaking into the urine. This is often an early sign of kidney disease.
  • How often: This test is usually done once a year during your regular check-up but may happen more often if your provider has concerns.
• Oral exam: Gum disease is a common problem with diabetes. In turn, gum disease can make it harder to manage blood sugar levels. You may also have less saliva and more sensitive gums. Regular check-ups can reduce your risk for problems.
  • How often: See your dentist twice a year or more often, depending on the health of your gums. Tell them about any changes in your health or medications because both can affect your oral health. 

Remember: When it comes to diabetes, early detection can make a world of difference. Add regular check-ups to your to-do list to reduce your risk for complications from diabetes. 

By actively monitoring your blood sugar, making healthy lifestyle choices and staying connected, you can lead a fulfilling life as you manage your diabetes.

Understand more about diabetes

Banner Health is here to support you on your journey to better health. Find out more about types of diabetes, how to monitor your blood sugar and other ways to manage your health.  

Were you or your child newly diagnosed with diabetes? Learn the basics here.