What tests do you need when you have diabetes?
Tests you may have include:
- A1c blood test. This shows whether your blood sugar has been staying within your target range.
- Blood pressure test. High blood pressure can damage nerves and blood vessels.
- Cholesterol test. High cholesterol raises the risk for heart attack and stroke.
- Albumin-creatinine ratio test. This checks for protein in the urine, a sign of kidney damage.
- Blood creatinine test/estimated glomerular filtration (eGFR). This shows how well your kidneys are working.
- Complete foot exam. The doctor checks for foot sores and loss of sensation.
- Dental exam and cleaning. The dentist checks for gum disease and tooth decay.
- Complete eye exam. This checks for damage to the back of the eye (diabetic retinopathy).
- Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) blood test. This checks for thyroid disease.
What checkups are important when you have diabetes?
See your doctor for regular checkups to help you avoid problems. Checkups may include blood pressure tests, eye exams, foot exams, kidney tests, dental exams, and cholesterol tests. If you smoke, talk to your doctor about ways to quit. Stay up to date on your COVID-19 vaccines. And get a flu vaccine every year.
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