4. Schedule regular physicals and eye exams

Schedule two to four diabetes checkups a year, in addition to your yearly physical and routine eye exams.

During the physical, your health care provider will ask about your nutrition and activity level and look for any diabetes-related complications — including signs of kidney damage, nerve damage and heart disease — as well as screen for other medical problems. He or she will also examine your feet for any issues that may need treatment.

Your eye care specialist will check for signs of retinal damage, cataracts and glaucoma.