Diabetes care: 10 ways to avoid complications

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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

Diabetes makes it more likely you'll get certain illnesses. Routine vaccines can help prevent them. Ask your doctor about:

Flu vaccine. A yearly flu vaccine can help you stay healthy during flu season as well as prevent serious complications from the flu.
Pneumonia vaccine. Sometimes the pneumonia vaccine requires only one shot. If you have diabetes complications or you're age 65 or older, you may need a booster shot.
Hepatitis B vaccine. The hepatitis B vaccine is recommended for adults with diabetes who haven't previously received the vaccine and are younger than 60. If you're age 60 or older and have never received the hepatitis B vaccine, talk to your doctor about whether it's right for you.
Other vaccines. Stay up to date with your tetanus shot (usually given every 10 years). Your doctor may recommend other vaccines as well.