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Diabetes care: 10 ways to avoid complications

Content 1. Make a commitment to managing your diabetes 2. Don't smoke 3. Keep your blood pressure and cholesterol under control 4. Schedule regular physicals and eye exams 5. Keep your vaccines up to date 6. Take care of your teeth 7. Pay attention to your feet 8. Consider a daily aspirin 9. If you drink alcohol, do so responsibly 10. Take stress seriously

2. Don't smoke

Smoking increases your risk of type 2 diabetes and the risk of various diabetes complications, including:

  • Reduced blood flow in the legs and feet, which can lead to infections, ulcers and possible removal of a body part by surgery (amputation)
  • Heart disease
  • Stroke
  • Eye disease, which can lead to blindness
  • Nerve damage
  • Kidney disease
  • Premature death

Talk to your doctor about ways to help you stop smoking or using other types of tobacco.

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