Diabetes (type 1 and type 2) in children and young people: diagnosis and management

High blood pressure

High blood pressure can cause problems with your health.

You should have your blood pressure checked when you find out that you have type 2 diabetes, and every year after this.

High blood fat (cholesterol) levels

Cholesterol is a substance made by your liver and is also found in some fatty foods. Having too much of it in your blood can cause problems with your health, and particularly with your heart.

You should have your cholesterol checked when you find out that you have type 2 diabetes, and every year after this.

Foot problems

We have written separate information about foot problems caused by diabetes.

Eye problems

You should have your eyes checked for problems every year after you turn 12. Your diabetes team may ask you to get your eyes checked before you turn 12 if you are having problems with your diabetes (for example, problems keeping your HbA1c at the right level).

If you have problems with your eyes that are caused by your diabetes, your diabetes team should explain how to stop these problems from getting worse.

Gum disease

Type 2 diabetes means you are more likely to have gum disease (also called periodontitis).

It is important to have regular dental checks for gum disease. Your dentist can do this as part of your normal dental appointments, and they will tell you how often you need to come in.

If you do get gum disease, your dentist can treat it. Treating gum disease can also make it easier to manage your blood glucose and stop it getting too high (hyperglycaemia).

Kidney problems

You should have your kidneys checked for problems when you find out that you have type 2 diabetes, and every year after this.

If you have problems with your kidneys that are caused by your diabetes, your diabetes team should explain how to stop these problems from getting worse.