Diabetes: Head to Toe Care
By Fitness and Freebies
Diabetes can lead to vision loss or even blindness.
To take care of your eyes:
- Keep your blood sugar under control.
- Bring high blood pressure down.
- Get a dilated eye exam by an eye doctor every year.
See an eye doctor if:
- Your vision is blurry.
- You see double, spots or floaters.
- One or both eyes hurt
- You feel pressure in your eye.
- You cannot see things at the sides like you used to.
- You have trouble reading.
People with diabetes are twice as likely to develop high blood pressure than those who do not have diabetes.
To have a healthy heart:
- Lose weight if you are overweight.
- Become more physically active.
- Have your blood pressure checked at each doctor visit.
- Ask your doctor what your blood pressure goal should be. A blood pressure level under 130/85mm Hg is the goal for most people.
- Don't smoke.
Your Feet:
Diabetes can harm the blood vessels and nerves in your feet. To keep your feet healthy:
- Keep your blood sugar in control.
- Take off your shoes and socks and have your feet checked at least once a year - more often if you have any foot problems.
- Wash your feet every day. Dry them, even between toes.
- Check daily for cuts, blisters, redness and swelling. If you cannot see the bottom of your feet, use a mirror or ask someone for help.
- Never walk barefoot.
- Wear shoes that fit well. If you have lost feeling in your feet, ask your health care provider for advice on proper shoes.
- Cut your toenails straight across and file the edges.
- Shake out your shoes before putting them on.
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