Blood pressure screenings – Diabetes can damage your blood vessels, leading to high blood pressure. This can increase your risk for a heart attack or stroke. A normal blood pressure reading is less than 120/80.

Complete foot exam – High blood sugar can cause poor blood flow in your feet and nerve damage. You might experience tingling, pain or loss of feeling (which could be dangerous if a blister or cut were to go unnoticed and turn into a serious infection).

A1C blood testing – One of the most common tests for diabetes, the A1C test measures your average blood sugar level over the past three months.

Kidney function testing – If blood flow to the kidneys is reduced, they may become unable to properly filter waste and toxins, which can lead to kidney disease.

Dilated eye exam – Diabetes can put you at risk for eye problems like diabetic retinopathy and glaucoma. Regular eye exams help you catch problems early on, before they become serious. 

Diabetes medications – Your medication needs may change over time. Make sure to discuss your medications and how to take them.

• Don’t smoke. Besides increasing your risk for type 2 diabetes, smoking can lead to serious conditions, like kidney disease, stroke, nerve damage and eye disease.
• Take care of your teeth and gums. Diabetes can make you prone to gum infections. At a minimum, brush your teeth twice a day, floss once a day and see your dentist at least every six months.
• Eat a low-sodium diet. Limit your salt intake to help keep blood pressure and blood sugar levels under control.
• Follow a diabetes diet.
• Build regular exercise into your daily routine.
• Take your diabetes medications as directed by your provider.
• Monitor your blood glucose. Keep a diary of readings to share with your health care provider.
• Protect your feet from diabetes complications:
  • Wash and dry your feet daily, especially between your toes. (Avoid soaking, which can cause dryness.)
  • Moisturize your feet with lotion or petroleum jelly. Don’t apply it between your toes (unless you are using a medicated cream) — too much moisture could lead to an infection.
  • Check your feet regularly for sores, blisters, calluses or unusual changes to the skin.
  • Always wear shoes, even indoors.
• Manage your stress. Stress can make it harder to maintain your diabetes routine. Try relaxation techniques, like yoga, meditation or listening to soothing music. Don’t be afraid to reach out for help — a diabetes support group is a great way to meet others going through the same thing, who can offer encouragement and guidance.