Reducing Risks means doing behaviors that minimize or prevent complications and negative outcomes of prediabetes and diabetes. Examples of these behaviors include making positive lifestyle changes, participating in a type 2 diabetes prevention or diabetes self-management education and support program, getting adequate sleep, and getting recommended vaccines and health screenings. Acknowledging that preventive actions you can take now will benefit you years from now means you have the power to change your health outcomes.
Learning about your health risks is the first step to being able to avoid complications. There are four times when it is most beneficial to meet with a diabetes care and education specialist:
Once you know your risks, you’ll need to problem solve around taking the recommended steps to help prevent or reduce your risks of complications. Here are the recommended checks for maintaining your health and catching any problems early so they can be treated:
Schedule regular medical checkups. Plan to see your provider at least every three months. They can order blood tests such as an A1C which measures your average overall glucose level during the past 3 months, as well as check your blood pressure.
Get all of the recommended health checks:
Sleep apnea screening
Hearing loss screening
Dental exam
Eye exam
Kidney function screening
Get a cholesterol check
Take care of your feet. Look closely at the tops and bottoms of your feet every day. Look for redness, cuts, bruises or sores that won’t heal. Use a mirror if needed. Don’t go barefoot. Keep your feet clean and dry. Call your provider right away if you find a problem with your feet.
Get recommended vaccines. This includes flu, pneumonia and hepatitis B. Learn more in this vaccination guide from the CDC.Â
Don’t smoke. Smoking damages your blood vessels and increases your risk of stroke and heart attack.
Monitor your food, medications, exams, target levels and more. Use the data gathered to problem solve and come up with the most appropriate strategies.
Learn the signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia. Find out what to do when you experience hypoglycemia and learn how to manage it. Visit our hypoglycemia resources page for more.Â
Understand the connection between heart disease and diabetes. Find out what you can do to reduce your risk for cardiovascular complications.Â
Talk about your feelings. It is easy to feel overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed. Talk to your diabetes care and education specialist, healthcare provider or counselor about your feelings. Learn more about healthy coping strategies.   Â
Making sure you get recommended health checks and sticking to your treatment plan are positive steps you can take to reduce your risk of complications. Taking an active role in keeping your heart, kidneys and eyes as healthy as possible helps you achieve your desired quality of life. Act early so you can stay healthy in the long run! A diabetes care and education specialist can be a great resource for helping you understand how to reduce your risks. Ask your provider to refer you. You deserve it!
Explore the handouts below to learn more about reducing risks.Â
Reducing Risks - English
Reducing Risks Toolbox and Tools - English
Diabetes-Related Ketoacidosis - English
Sick Day Management for Adults - English
Sick Day Management for Children - English
Hyperglycemic Hyperosmolar Syndrome (HHS) - English
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