Diabetes self-monitoring and check-ups

People with diabetes are taught how to monitor their own sugar levels regularly.

Blood glucose
Self-monitoring has the benefits of:
* Helping to detect when blood sugar levels may be too low - called hypoglycaemia;
* Keeping blood sugar levels under control at times of illness, when these levels tend to rise - called hyperglycaemia ;
* Giving an individual the confidence to be in control of their diabetes;

Most people are encouraged to measure their blood glucose at different times during the day or week. This is done by obtaining a small blood sample by pricking the skin. The sample is placed on to a test strip, which is then read by an electronic glucose test meter.

For people with type 2 diabetes who may find this type of testing difficult (in particular older people), a nurse can help perform this reading. Under certain circumstances, urine testing is simpler and provides satisfactory results.

After diagnosis
Once diabetes is diagnosed, it's very important to attend regular check-ups, at least annually, so the patient, remains symptom-free and to prevent possible complications.

These check-ups will include:
* Blood tests to monitor the level of glucose in the blood, how well the diabetes has been controlled over the previous two to three months, cholesterol levels, and kidney function;
* Blood pressure measurement;
* Eye examinations, at least annually because diabetes can damage the back of the eyes (called retinopathy) but laser treatment can be used to treat this when it's caught early enough;
* Examinations of the feet and nerves;

People diagnosed with diabetes will see a dietician to be advised about a healthy diet and which foods are best for people with their condition.

They will also visit a chiropodist as good foot care is essential to prevent infections and ulcers developing, which may be slow to heal. Finally, patients will be allocated a diabetes specialist nurse.

For more information, please read:
* What is diabetes?
* Treating Diabetes
* Diabetes insipidus
* Diabetes - useful contacts