1 Keep the three “hypers” under control
• hyperglycemia (high blood glucose)
• hypertension (high blood pressure)
• hyperlipidemia (high blood lipids)
2 Foot problems (neuropathy)
Symptoms of foot problems may include -
• Pain
• Numbness
• Swelling
• Tenderness
• Sores that won’t heal
What to do to prevent foot problems -
• Wear shoes that fit well
• Don’t go barefoot
• Do a daily “foot check”
• Tell your health-care provider about any injury to your feet
• Keep feet clean and dry
• Have a foot exam every three months (take your shoes and socks off every time you see your health-care provider)
• Use skin lotion to prevent dryness (but not between your toes)
• Control blood pressure
• Manage blood glucose
• If you smoke, stop
• Manage blood lipids
3 Eye problems(retinopathy)
Symptoms of eye problems may include -
• Any change in eyesight
• Blurred vision
• Floaters
If you experience symptoms of eye problems -
• Tell your health-care provider right away about any changes in your vision
• See an eye care specialist every year for a dilated eye exam
• Control blood pressure
• Manage blood glucose
4 Kidney problems (nephropathy)
Signs of kidney problems may include -
• High blood pressure
• Protein in the urine
Ask your health-care provider to check for protein in your urine and check your serum creatinine level yearly.
What to do if you experience kidney problems
• Manage blood glucose
• Control blood pressure
• If you have kidney problems, your health-care provider may suggest that you limit protein in your diet
• If you smoke, stop!
5 Nerve problems (neuropathy)
Symptoms of nerve problems may include-
• Sexual problems such as impotence
• Numbness in hands or feet
• Tingling
• Burning
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
If you experience symptoms of nerve problems-
• Tell your healthcare provider about any of these problems
• Some medications can help
• Manage blood glucose
6 Heart problems (cardiovascular)
Kidney Symptoms of heart problems may include -
• Chest pain
• Shortness of breath
• Swollen ankles
If you experience symptoms of heart problems -
• Call your healthcare provider if you have any of these symptoms
• Control blood pressure
• Limit intake of salt
• Be active every day! (Always check with your healthcare provider before beginning or changing your exercise program.)
• Eat less saturated fat and avoid trans fat
• Manage blood glucose
7 Dental (tooth and gum) problems
Symptoms of dental problems may include -
• Pain
• Swelling
• Bleeding
If you experience dental problems -
• Brush and floss after eating
• Visit the dentist at least twice per year
• Tell the dentist you have diabetes
• Manage your blood glucose