Regular Screening Schedules
Every 3-4 Months
- •Endocrinology appointments with A1C testing
- •Review CGM data and adjust insulin doses
- •Discuss any concerns or changes in management
Annually
- •Comprehensive eye exam (dilated retinal screening)
- •Kidney function tests (microalbumin, creatinine)
- •Comprehensive foot exam
- •Lipid panel (cholesterol screening)
- •Thyroid function tests (TSH)
- •Blood pressure monitoring
- •Dental checkup (every 6 months recommended)
Eye Health Monitoring
Diabetic Retinopathy Prevention
- •Maintain A1C below 7% to significantly reduce risk
- •Control blood pressure (below 140/90)
- •Annual dilated eye exams with ophthalmologist
- •Report vision changes immediately
Warning Signs
- •Blurred or fluctuating vision
- •Floaters or spots in vision
- •Difficulty with night vision
- •Dark or empty areas in vision
Kidney & Foot Health
Protecting Your Kidneys
- •Maintain blood sugar and blood pressure in target range
- •Annual microalbumin screening (protein in urine)
- •Stay well hydrated
- •Limit NSAIDs (ibuprofen) use
- •ACE inhibitors may be prescribed if early kidney changes detected
Foot Care Essentials
- •Check feet daily for cuts, blisters, redness, or swelling
- •Wash and moisturize feet daily (not between toes)
- •Wear well-fitting shoes and never go barefoot
- •See podiatrist for nail trimming if needed
- •Report any foot problems to doctor immediately
Cardiovascular Health
Heart Health Strategies
- •Manage cholesterol levels (target LDL below 100 mg/dL)
- •Keep blood pressure below 140/90 (130/80 if possible)
- •Exercise regularly (150 minutes/week moderate activity)
- •Don't smoke - smoking dramatically increases heart disease risk
- •Maintain healthy weight
- •Consider statin therapy if recommended by doctor
Managing Other Autoimmune Conditions
Common Comorbidities
- •Thyroid disease (Hashimoto's or Graves' disease)
- •Celiac disease
- •Addison's disease (adrenal insufficiency)
- •Vitiligo
Screening Recommendations
- •Annual thyroid screening (TSH test)
- •Celiac screening if symptoms present (or at diagnosis)
- •Report unusual fatigue, weight changes, or digestive issues
Staying Current with T1D Research
Emerging Technologies
- •Automated insulin delivery systems (closed loop / hybrid closed loop)
- •Next-generation CGMs and insulin pumps
- •Smart insulin (glucose-responsive insulin in development)
- •Beta cell replacement therapies and stem cell research
Participating in Research
- •Consider joining clinical trials for new therapies
- •Register with T1D Exchange or TrialNet
- •Stay informed through JDRF, ADA, and other T1D organizations