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Diabetes-related complications and health checks

Over time, diabetes can affect different parts of your body. The good news is there's a lot you can do to protect your health.

High blood glucose levels can affect your blood vessels and nerves. Over time, this can cause problems in parts of your body like your eyes, feet, kidneys, and heart. These problems are called diabetes-related complications.

Looking after your diabetes can lower your risk of complications. And having regular health checks helps find any problems early, so you can act quickly.

Find out about diabetes-related complications and what you can do to protect your health.

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Eye health

See how diabetes can affect your eyes, what to watch for, and how to keep your eyes healthy.

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Foot health

Find out how daily foot care can help protect your feet so you can keep moving.

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Kidney health

Kidney changes may have no symptoms, so get regular checks to look after your kidneys.

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Heart health

Diabetes can increase your risk of heart disease, but there are many things you can do to keep your heart healthy.

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Nerve health

Read about how diabetes can affect your nerves, the signs to look for, and what to do if you notice changes.

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Teeth and gum health

Teeth and gum problems are more likely if you have diabetes. Make sure you know how to look after your teeth and gums.

Diabetes health checks

You may not notice any symptoms in the early stages of a diabetes-related complication. Regular checks of your eyes, feet, kidneys, and heart can help find changes early, before they become more serious.

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Diabetes health checks

All you need to know about health checks, including what checks you need and how to book them.

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Your healthcare team

Find out which health professionals can help you look after your diabetes and health checks.

More information and support

  • Call the NDSS Helpline on 1800 637 700: Ask to speak to a diabetes educator.
  • Find a credentialled diabetes educator: Go to the Australian Diabetes Educators Association website to find one near you.
  • Find a diabetes health professional: Go to Healthdirect and search for a health professional near you.
  • Connect with others like you: Visit the NDSS Peer Support hub to find an online or in-person group.
  • Look after your emotional health: Visit Looking after your mind to access mental health support, tools, and resources for people with diabetes.

Last updated: September 2026