Routine exams for long-term type 1 diabetics?

I just hit 30 years with type 1 diabetes in October, and am thankful to have no complications that I know of. I see an ophthalmologist annually, my dentist twice a year, and get labwork done about twice per year to check my A1c, lipids, etc. (I order this package myself, adding thyroid testing once per year). And, I get routine vaccines, thanks to working in a hospital!

My regular PCP is now currently managing my diabetes care, and I’m not sure if she would order any other extensive testing unless I was having problems.

Are there other routine tests we should be doing with type 1? Nerve conduction, heart tests, etc?

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Does that include CBC, blood and urine tests?

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Yes -

  1. Lipid Panel
  2. Comprehensive Metabolic Panel
  3. Complete Blood Count w/ diff
  4. Hemoglobin A1c
  5. Microalbumin Random Urine with Creatinine

Since thyroid isn’t included in that panel, I add that one once per year.

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There is also the Coronary artery calcium (CAC) scan - A type of CT scan that creates detailed 3D images of the coronary arteries to look for calcified plaque. It is supposed to be more precise than the lipid panel test. You might have to see a cardiologist to get this test. I have not gotten it but my endo told me that it can be a useful test even if one’s lipid panel is shows low cholesterol as in my case.

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