Diabetes: what to know from head to toe - Special Section - Brief Article

Ebony, March, 2002

EYES

Diabetes can lead to vision loss or even blindness. If you catch problems early, you can save your sight. However, you may not have any symptoms. That is why it is important to have an eye exam each year.

TO TAKE GOOD CARE OF YOUR EYES:

* Keep your blood sugar close to your goal.

* Bring high blood pressure down.

* Get a dilated eye exam by an eye doctor every year.

* Your eye doctor will use drops to enlarge your pupils to look inside your eyes.

* See your eye doctor if:

* Your vision is blurry.

* You see double. You see spots or floaters.

* One or both eyes hurt.

* You feel pressure in your eye.

* You can't see things at the sides like you used to.

HEART

People with diabetes are twice as likely to develop high blood pressure than people without diabetes. If untreated, high blood pressure can lead to heart disease and stroke. It can also cause eye and kidney problems.

TO HAVE A HEALTHY HEART:

* Lose weight, if you are overweight. Talk to your health care provider.

* Become more physically active.

* Have your blood pressure checked during each visit to your health care provider.

* Ask your health care provider what your blood pressure goal should be. A blood pressure level under 130/85 is the goal for most people with diabetes.

* Don't smoke.

FEET

Diabetes can harm the blood vessels and nerves in your feet. When it does, you may not feel a cut or blister on your foot. Untreated, a cut or blister can lead to infection and possible loss of a limb.

TO KEEP YOUR FEET HEALTHY:

* Keep your blood sugar close to your goal.

* 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. If you find anything, contact your health care provider--no matter how small the problem.

* 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.

* Break in new shoes slowly.

* Wear clean, padded socks that fit well. Make sure the sock seams are in the right place.

* Cut your nails straight across and file the edges.

* Shake out your shoes before putting them on. A small pebble can lead to problems.

For diabetes information, call 1-800-DIABETES (1-800-342-2383), or visit the American Diabetes Web site at www.diabetes.org.