Regular screening schedules
Annual screenings
- Comprehensive eye exam with dilation by ophthalmologist
- Urine microalbumin test for kidney function
- Comprehensive foot exam with monofilament testing
- Lipid panel (cholesterol, triglycerides)
- Thyroid function tests (TSH, T4)
- Blood pressure monitoring at every visit
Quarterly screenings
- A1C testing every 3 months
- Endocrinology appointments for diabetes management
- Review of CGM and pump data with healthcare team
- Weight, blood pressure, and general health assessment
Additional screenings
- Celiac disease screening at diagnosis and periodically
- Vitamin D, B12 levels if indicated
- Cardiovascular risk assessment annually
- Depression and anxiety screenings
- Dental exams twice yearly
Eye, kidney, and foot health monitoring
Eye health (retinopathy prevention)
- Annual dilated eye exams starting 5 years after diagnosis
- Report any vision changes, floaters, or flashes immediately
- Optimal blood sugar control significantly reduces risk
- Blood pressure control also protects eye health
- Early treatment can prevent vision loss if caught early
Kidney health (nephropathy prevention)
- Annual urine microalbumin and serum creatinine tests
- ACE inhibitors or ARBs if early kidney disease detected
- Maintain blood pressure below 130/80 mmHg
- Stay well-hydrated and limit sodium intake
- Avoid NSAIDs (ibuprofen) which can stress kidneys
Foot health (neuropathy prevention)
- Daily self-foot inspections for cuts, blisters, or changes
- Annual comprehensive foot exam with monofilament and vibration testing
- Proper-fitting shoes and diabetic socks
- Never go barefoot, even indoors
- Report numbness, tingling, or pain to your doctor immediately
Cardiovascular health and T1D
Understanding cardiovascular risk
- T1D increases risk of heart disease and stroke
- High blood sugar damages blood vessels over time
- Other risk factors: high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking
- Risk increases with longer duration of diabetes
- Women with T1D face higher relative risk than men
Cardiovascular protection strategies
- Maintain A1C as close to target as safely possible
- Control blood pressure (target <130/80 mmHg)
- Manage cholesterol with diet, exercise, and medication if needed
- Don't smoke - if you do, get support to quit
- Regular exercise: 150 minutes moderate activity weekly
- Healthy diet: Mediterranean or DASH diet patterns
Warning signs to never ignore
- Chest pain, pressure, or discomfort
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Pain in arms, back, neck, jaw, or stomach
- Sudden severe headache or vision changes
- Numbness or weakness, especially on one side
- Call 911 immediately if you experience these symptoms
Managing other autoimmune conditions
Common comorbid conditions
- Thyroid disease (Hashimoto's or Graves'): affects 15-30% of people with T1D
- Celiac disease: 10 times more common in T1D population
- Addison's disease (adrenal insufficiency)
- Vitiligo (skin pigmentation disorder)
- Pernicious anemia (vitamin B12 deficiency)
Screening and monitoring
- Thyroid function tests (TSH) annually
- Celiac antibody screening at diagnosis and if symptoms develop
- Be alert for symptoms: fatigue, weight changes, GI issues, skin changes
- Coordinate care between endocrinology and other specialists
- Understand how additional conditions affect diabetes management
Staying current with T1D research and treatments
New technology and treatments
- Automated insulin delivery (AID) systems: hybrid closed-loop technology
- New ultra-rapid insulins and longer-acting formulations
- Improved CGM accuracy and wearability
- Islet cell transplantation advances
- Immunotherapy research for prevention and treatment
Staying informed
- Discuss new technologies with your endocrinology team
- Follow reputable sources: ADA, JDRF, Beyond Type 1
- Attend diabetes conferences or webinars
- Join clinical trials if eligible and interested
- Connect with the T1D community for real-world experiences
Questions to ask your team
- "Am I a candidate for automated insulin delivery systems?"
- "Are there new medications that might work better for me?"
- "What clinical trials are available in our area?"
- "How can I optimize my current treatment regimen?"
- "What new technologies should I consider?"