Top 10 Self-Checks for People with Diabetes

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Living with diabetes requires more than just taking medication. The most empowered patients are those who know how to observe their bodies, track their health, and act early. Self-checks are the foundation of this personal responsibility, and when done consistently, they can prevent serious complications and save lives.

Below is a detailed guide on the essential self-checks every person with diabetes should make part of their routine.


1. Blood Glucose Monitoring (Daily)

This is the cornerstone of diabetes self-care. Why it matters:

  • Identifies highs (hyperglycaemia) and lows (hypoglycaemia)
  • Helps assess the effect of food, activity, stress, and medication
  • Supports better HbA1c outcomes over time  Tools:
  •  Finger-prick glucometer
  •  Continuous glucose monitor (CGM)

Record readings with date, time, meals, and symptoms to track trends effectively.


2. Foot Checks (Daily)

Diabetes can lead to nerve damage (neuropathy) and poor circulation, increasing the risk of wounds, ulcers, and amputations. What to look for:

  • -Blisters, cuts, sores, swelling
  •  Dry, cracked skin or infections
  •  Change in colour or temperature
  •  Loss of feeling

Use a mirror or ask a family member to check the bottoms of your feet if needed.


3. Weight Monitoring (Weekly)

Weight changes can affect insulin needs and indicate complications. Why it matters:

  • Sudden weight gain may suggest fluid retention (possible kidney or heart issues)
  • Weight loss could signal poor blood sugar control or other conditions

Record your weight once a week under consistent conditions (same day/time/clothes).


4. Blood Pressure Monitoring (Weekly or Biweekly)

High blood pressure (hypertension) is a common co-condition in diabetes and increases the risk of stroke, kidney disease, and heart attack. Targets:

  • Generally under 140/80 mmHg
  • Under 130/80 mmHg if you have kidney or eye problems

Use a validated monitor at home and check with both arms initially.


5. Urine Ketone Testing (When Needed)

Important for people with Type 1 diabetes or those with Type 2 during illness or stress. When to test:

  • Blood glucose is persistently above 13.9 mmol/L
  • You’re feeling unwell, nauseous, or breathing rapidly

Positive ketones can indicate diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a medical emergency.


6. Medication Adherence (Daily)

Keeping track of what you’ve taken helps avoid missed doses or double-dosing. What to check:

  • Am I taking my medications as prescribed?
  • Am I refilling on time?
  •  Any side effects or missed doses?

Use a pillbox or app reminder.


7. Mood, Energy & Mental Health (Weekly or As Needed)

Diabetes is emotionally taxing. Depression, anxiety, and diabetes distress are all common and often go unnoticed. What to reflect on:

  • How is my mood?
  • Am I sleeping and functioning well?
  • Am I feeling burned out or overwhelmed?

Write down your emotions alongside your physical symptoms: mind and body are connected.


8. Sleep Quality (Daily Awareness)

Poor sleep leads to insulin resistance, fatigue, and higher blood sugar levels.  Signs to track:

  • Trouble falling or staying asleep
  • Waking up tired
  • Sleep apnoea symptoms (snoring, choking)

Aim for 7–9 hours of quality sleep; record your sleep patterns and how you feel each morning.


9. Eye Awareness (Monthly Self-Check, Annual Exam)

Diabetes is a leading cause of blindness due to diabetic retinopathy. At home:

  •  Monitor for blurred vision, floaters, or eye pain
  • Check reading ability and clarity of vision
  •  Book annual eye exams (with retinal imaging). Notify your team of any changes.

10. Skin & Injection Site Checks (Weekly)

If you take insulin or use injectables, rotating injection sites is crucial. What to look for:

  •  Lumps, bumps, or hard skin (lipohypertrophy)
  • Signs of infection at the site.

Rotate sites (abdomen, thighs, arms) and check skin for dryness, rashes, or wounds.


UK Guidelines and Resources:

- Diabetes UK Health Checks 

- NHS Blood Glucose Self-Monitoring Guidelines]

- NICE Guidelines 


Final Word: Make It a Habit, Not a Hassle

The most successful diabetes patients aren’t lucky they’re prepared. Self-checks, when done consistently, can:

  • Prevent hospital admissions
  • Reduce medication dependency
  •  Catch early warning signs of complications
  • Give you a stronger voice in your care

“Check yourself before you wreck yourself.” It’s more than saying it’s your health strategy.

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