Diabetes

Having diabetes puts you at high risk for eye problems that can lead to vision loss or blindness. Diabetic eye disease has no early warning signs. By the time you notice changes in your vision, your eyes could already be badly damaged.

That’s why you should get a diabetic eye exam at least once a year, even if your diabetes is well controlled. A diabetic eye exam can help find problems early to protect your eyesight.

You don’t need a referral to get your diabetic eye exam. Call your IEHP eye doctor today to set up this no-cost exam.

To find an eye doctor near you, use our Find Care tool:

1.  Head to our Find Care page.
2.  Click on “Advanced Search.”
3.  Select your plan.
4.  Enter your zip code or city.
5.  Search by “Vision Services.”
6.  Choose other filters as needed.
7.  Click “Search” and view the list of eye doctors.

The Hemoglobin A1C lab test shows your average blood sugar level over the past two to three months. This test is a vital part of taking charge of your diabetes.

Doctors suggest getting the A1C test at least twice a year, but this depends on how well you control your blood sugar.

You may need it more often if:

• Your A1C number is too high.
• You plan to become pregnant.
• You start to take a new diabetes medication.
• Your doctor changes your diabetes treatment plan.

Having diabetes puts you at high risk for chronic kidney disease (CKD). When diabetes is not well controlled, the high blood sugar levels can harm kidneys over time.

CKD cannot be cured, but it can be treated and controlled. It’s vital that you work closely with your doctor to stop or find CKD in the early stages. Your doctor will want to screen you for CKD at least once a year.

Two out of three people with diabetes have high blood pressure. High blood pressure is when the blood moves through the blood vessels with too much force, causing your heart to work harder. Over time, this can cause heart disease and raise your risk for other problems linked to diabetes.

People with high blood pressure don’t always know that they have it because there are no clear signs. Check your blood pressure at each doctor visit. If you have high blood pressure, check it daily at home.

Keeping your blood pressure within a healthy range (below 120/80) can help you put off or prevent a heart attack or stroke. Talk to your doctor to learn your ideal blood pressure range.

Diabetes can cause nerve damage that takes away the feeling in your feet. It also reduces blood flow to the feet, making it harder to heal an injury or fight infection. If you have diabetes, you should check your feet daily for cuts and sores.

Once a year, you should also get a foot exam at your doctor’s office. This exam will check for signs of any foot problems that can lead to a bad infection if not treated early.