Tests for detecting complications

Heart and blood vessel disease
An annual cholesterol profile, regular blood pressure checks and, if recommended, an aspirin a day can reduce the risk for heart attack and stroke. People with diabetes also should consider self-monitoring their blood pressure.
Foot complications
Regular foot exams and daily foot care help detect foot problems, such as sores, corns or calluses. Early detection and care helps prevent infection and other serious problems.
Nerve damage (neuropathy)
A skin sensitivity test during the foot exam helps detect early nerve problems (neuropathy). Nerve damage can cause foot pain, numbness or tingling. Sexual, bladder, stomach or bowel problems also may occur.
Kidney disease (nephropathy)
An annual urine test (albumin/creatinine ratio) helps detect early kidney disease (nephrophathy). Untreated, kidney disease can slow waste removal from the blood and cause or worsen high blood pressure.
Eye disease (retinopathy)
An annual retinal eye exam helps detect eye problems (retinopathy) that can impair vision.