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How Diabetes Affects Your Body
EYES
Can cause glaucoma, cataracts, and even blindness
Recommendation:
- Dilated-eye exam at least once yearly
NERVES
Can cause burning, tingling, and numbness in hands and feet.
Recommendation:
- Monofilament foot exam at every doctors visits
KIDNEYS
Can cause damage to kidneys and may eventually lead to dialysis.
Recommendations:
- Urine Protein Test (microalbumin) at least once a year.
- Have your blood pressure checked regularly, and ask about medications like ARB and/or ACE inhibitors that help control blood pressure.
HEART AND BLOOD VESSELS
Can cause high cholesterol, high blood pressure, heart disease, heart attack, stroke, and poor circulation.
Recommendations:
- Have blood pressure checked regularly-goal is less than 130/80
- “Bad” cholesterol ( LDL) should be less than 100 mg/dl and less than 70 mg/dl for some people
- Take aspirin daily
- Stop smoking tobacco
MOUTH
Can cause cavities, gum disease, and tooth loss.
Recommendations:
- Dental exam every 6 months
- Brush teeth at least twice daily, and floss regularly
FEET
Can become infected and may lead to an amputation.
Recommendations:
- Check feet daily
- Protect feet using lotion and wearing socks/shoes at all times
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