Regular check-ups for diabetes mellitus

 

• In the case of diabetes mellitus (type I and type II), maintaining good blood sugar levels is very important. This requires regular check-ups for monitoring in order to detect complications at an early stage.

  Possible complications of diabetes

  • If the blood sugar is poorly controlled and the values ​​are regularly too high, there is a very high probability of complications and secondary diseases in the coronary arteries, the kidneys, the blood vessels and the eyes (or the retina) and the nerves.
  • The holistic treatment of diet, physical activity and medication reduces the risk of complications from diabetes. It is important to normalize your blood sugar level.
  • The blood sugar level is checked by blood analyzes and additional examinations by the doctor.

  What needs to be checked during a check-up?

  • It is recommended every three months:
    • to have the glycohemoglobin value (HbA1c value) checked. This value is the central value when checking the blood sugar level. Also known as blood sugar memory, it provides an indication of the average blood sugar level over the past 8 weeks. Blood will be drawn from you for the HbA1c test.
    • Have your weight and blood pressure checked.
    • to have your feet examined. For this purpose, the condition of the skin, the blood circulation and the sensitivity of the nerves are checked. If you're prone to foot damage, you should see a podiatrist or podiatrist regularly.
  • The following examinations are also carried out once a year:
    • A complete check of blood lipids (good and bad cholesterol and triglycerides) using a blood draw.
    • A kidney function test (measurement of the albumin level using a test carrier with morning urine, measurement of the creatinine level in the blood).
    • An electrocardiogram or an appointment with the cardiologist in consultation with the attending physician.
    • An appointment with an ophthalmologist who examines the back of the eye and measures any possible deterioration in vision.
    • A dental appointment to prevent gum disease and receding gums associated with diabetes.
  • The type and frequency of the additional checks on the blood sugar, kidney and blood lipid levels depends essentially on your individual health situation and any concomitant diseases.
  • There is often an agreement between doctors and health insurance companies about the exact course of the therapy and the necessary examinations. This is referred to as a “disease management program, DMP”.

  The 7 essential points of control in diabetes mellitus:

  1. HbA1c measurement: every 3 months.
  2. Doctor's appointment: every 3 months.
  3. Lipid levels (blood draw): once a year.
  4. Kidney values ​​(in the laboratory): at least once a year.
  5. Appointment with the cardiologist or electrocardiogram (ECG): once a year.
  6. Appointment with an ophthalmologist or examination of the back of the eye: once a year.
  7. Dental examination: once a year.
     
     Source: http://www.arzt.praxis-balaz.de/regelmaessige-kontrolluntersuchungen-bei-diabetes-mellitus/