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  • Q&A with Australian Health Practitioners

    What lab tests or examinations do I need to get on a regular basis to lower my risk of complications?

    Related Topics
    Endocrinology Type 2 Diabetes
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  • Lynne McCleary

    Credentialled Diabetes Educator (CDE), Diabetes Educator

    I am a credentialled diabetes educator and have been a diabetes educator for approx 20 years. I run a diabetes clinic in Toowoomba, Queensland - … View Profile

    It is a great idea for you to take control of your diabetes and to understand the tests you need to have to alleviate complications associated with diabetes like heart disease, stroke and other conditions. The main tests include:

    -HbA1c test – this looks at what your sugar levels have been over the last three months as when you test your sugar levels yourself, you don't always know every minute of the day what your sugars are doing but this test gives us a clearer picture.

    -Fasting cholesterol - your cholesterol is broken down into your HDL and your LDL and triglycerides. This test lets us know that the fats in your blood aren't accumulating and causing problems.

    -Urine test – this should be done at least once a year. This test looks for protein in the urine, and microalbumin. This shows us if there is any protein being leaked by your kidneys, which is your kidneys' way of saying that they need to be looked after a little more.

    -Biochemistry test – this is a blood test that looks at your liver function and your kidney function as well as a few other things.

    -Foot examination – feet should be examined twice a year by a podiatrist, practice nurse or GP. This is to check that there are no sores that may develop into infections.

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  • Peta Adams

    Dietitian

    I am an Accredited Practising Dietitian locally born and working within the Riverina.I have a passion for helping people to achieve their nutrition goals, coaching … View Profile

    Lyne I belive you have covered most of the topics,

    However I have couple more to add these;

    -Optometrist - to examine the health of the blood vessels in your eyes, as Diabetes can often effect small blood vessels and it is important to have regular reviews with an Optometrist.

    -Diabetes Educator - important members in the team to monitor your blood glucose control and over all diabetes management.

    -Dietitian- also important to regular touch base with a dietitian as like diabetes, diets are ever evolving and it can help to monitor your diet with a dietitian to ensure your eating well and choosing the right fooods for your conditions.

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  • Claire Kerslake

    Credentialled Diabetes Educator (CDE), Diabetes Educator

    Claire Kerslake is a Credentialed Diabetes Educator, Registered Nurse and Health Coach based in Deniliquin in country New South Wales. Claire is the founder of … View Profile

    I would also add that a ful blood count will also be helpful annually particularly as the HBA1C test can be inaccurate if you are anaemic.

    A vitamin D test is also helpful as many of us these days are deficient in vitamin D which can affect our health in a variety of ways but particularly regarding insulin resistance.


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