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Check-ups . . .

. . . and annual reviews

What to expect

 

At every appointment:

  • your weight and height should be measured to make sure you’re a healthy weight for your height and see that you're growing at the right rate
  • your injection sites should be examined
  • your blood should be tested to measure long-term diabetes control (the test is called HbA1c)
  • a test for thyroid function and coeliac disease may also be done.

... and when you're 12 or older:

  • your legs and feet should be examined to check your circulation and nerve supply, and, if necessary, you should be referred to a registered podiatrist
  • your blood pressure should be checked to make sure your heart is working properly
  • your retina (back of your eye) should be photographed using a digital camera.

Once you have reached puberty, the clinic staff also check for any signs of diabetic complications. These usually develop if someone has had diabetes for many years, however the clinic staff will use your annual review to check for any early warning signs. Checks may include urine tests – protein in the urine is an early warning sign of kidney problems. See the complications section of this site for more information.