Managing diabetes with confidence

Being diagnosed with diabetes can feel scary or overwhelming, but you have more control than you may realize. Even small, steady steps and regular check-ins can make a meaningful difference in how you feel today and in the future.

This diabetes care guide brings together information and tools to help you make informed choices, understand how diabetes affects your body and stay on top of your care. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or continuing your health journey, you’ll be better equipped to manage your condition effectively and live a full, active life.

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Understanding diabetes

How diabetes affects the body

When you have diabetes, your body has trouble making or using the hormone insulin, which helps convert the food you eat into energy. When your body has trouble using insulin, sugar (glucose) can build up in the blood.

Type 1 diabetes

Occurs when the body’s immune system attacks the cells in the pancreas that  make insulin.

Type 2 diabetes

Occurs when the body doesn’t use insulin effectively, making it harder to keep blood sugar in a healthy range.

Over 38 million children and adults in the United States have diabetes.1

Source: American Diabetes Association

Diabetes and your body

High blood sugar can damage blood vessels and nerves, which may contribute to health problems throughout the body.²

1. Head

Stroke or memory loss

2. Eyes

Diabetic eye disease

3. Ears

Hearing loss

4. Mouth

Teeth and gum infections

5. Heart

Cardiovascular disease

6. Kidneys

Kidney damage

7. Blood Vessels

Reduced blood flow and vessel damage

8. Legs/Nerves

Nerve damage (neuropathy)

9. Feet

Ulcers and infections

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention³

Early detection and prevention

Many of these health problems can develop without symptoms, which is why routine screenings are so important. By monitoring changes in your body, your care team can take steps to help protect your health before more serious complications develop.

Need help finding a provider?

Call the number on your member ID card for help finding a provider near you.

Dive deeper

This guide focuses on 3 areas that often require closer monitoring: blood sugar, kidney function and vision. Learn what changes to watch for, which screenings help monitor them and how early detection can help you stay healthier over time.

Blood sugar

Keeping your blood sugar in a healthy range can support your overall well-being, especially as you age.⁴ Your provider will work with you to create a treatment plan to help you reach blood sugar goals, including medication and lifestyle changes.

Tracking your blood sugar

Daily blood sugar monitoring is a key part of diabetes care. While daily checks show how your levels change throughout the day, they don’t tell the whole story. That’s why A1C testing is also important.

Home glucose monitoring

Shows what’s happening today

Finger-stick tests and continuous glucose monitors show blood sugar levels in real time. Observing how food, activity, stress and medication can affect your levels throughout the day can reveal patterns and inform everyday choices.

A1C test

Tracks what’s happening over time

The A1C test measures average blood sugar over the past 3 months, helping show how consistently your levels have stayed within a target range. While individual goals may vary, the American Diabetes Association recommends an A1C level below 7% as a general target.⁵

Is your A1C on track?

A1C testing is typically recommended every 3 to 6 months, depending on your care plan.⁵ Ask your provider how often you should be tested and what target range is right for you.

Kidney health

Your kidneys work behind the scenes to keep your body in balance by filtering waste and excess fluid from the blood. Diabetes affects how the body processes sugar and can place added strain on the kidneys, increasing the risk of chronic kidney disease.⁶

1 in 3 adults with diabetes may have chronic kidney disease.⁷

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

How a healthy kidney works

How a damaged kidney works

Monitoring kidney health

Kidney changes can occur without symptoms, which is why annual screenings are so important.
A complete kidney health evaluation includes both a urine and blood test. Together, these tests
provide a more complete picture of your kidney function and changes you may not notice.

Urine test:

What uACR measures

The urine albumin-creatinine ratio (uACR) test checks for signs of kidney damage by measuring the amount of protein (albumin) in the urine.⁸

<30

mg/g

A uACR in this range is considered normal and generally reflects a lower risk of kidney problems or heart-related complications linked to protein in the urine.⁸

30+

mg/g

A uACR of 30 mg/g or higher suggests increased kidney stress and may indicate a higher risk for kidney disease. Follow-up testing and early action may be recommended.⁸

Blood test

What eGFR measures

The estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) test indicates how well the kidneys are filtering waste from the blood.⁹

Select a value

90+60-89 48-59 30-44 15-29 <15

90+

Suggests normal kidney function. Because eGFR naturally declines with age, slightly lower values may still be typical for older adults.

Source: National Kidney Foundation¹⁰

Stay on top of your kidney health

Speak with your provider about an annual kidney health evaluation that includes both blood and urine testing.

Vision care

Vision changes are common  with age, and diabetes can increase the risk of eye problems. Over time, high blood sugar can damage the small blood vessels  in the eyes, leading  to diabetic eye disease.

Diabetes is the leading cause of vision loss  in people ages 18 to 64.¹¹

Source: American Diabetes Association

Diabetic eye disease includes several conditions that can lead to vision loss¹²

Diabetic retinopathy: The most common form of diabetic eye disease, caused by damage to the blood vessels in the retina.
Cataracts: Cloudiness in the lens of the eye that can affect vision.

Diabetic macular edema: Swelling in the part of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision that can make it harder to see clearly. 
Glaucoma: Damage to the optic nerve that can affect side (peripheral) vision.

Because these conditions can develop without early symptoms, regular diabetic eye screenings play a critical role in protecting your vision.¹³

What happens at a diabetic eye exam?

While routine eye exams focus mainly on vision testing, diabetic eye exams prioritize the health of the retina and blood vessels. This screening may be performed by an optometrist or ophthalmologist, who will use drops to widen the pupils so your eyes can be carefully examined for early signs of disease. While the exam is painless, your vision may be blurry for a short time afterward.

Stay on top of your eye health

A diabetic eye exam is usually recommended once a year.¹⁴ Your provider can help determine the right schedule for your needs. If you need help finding an eye care provider, call the number on your insurance card.

Self-care

Simple steps to support whole-body health

Living well with diabetes means caring for your whole self — not just managing a condition. Small daily changes can make a difference in how you feel and function. Over time, the choices you make can help you stay active, independent and engaged in the things that matter most.

Effective blood sugar and lifestyle management can reduce the risk of eye, kidney and nerve complications by 40%.¹⁵

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Everyday Wellness

Self-care looks different for everyone. The goal is to build realistic routines that fit your body, lifestyle and daily schedule. Adopting even a few of the strategies below can help you take meaningful steps toward feeling your best.¹⁶

Stay on track with screenings

Regular tests and health screenings can help detect changes early and guide treatment decisions.

Maintain your  heart health

Keep blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol in a healthy range.

Take medication as directed

Taking medication as prescribed can reduce the risk of diabetes-related complications.

Eat well and limit alcohol

Choose colorful fruits and vegetables; and limit red meat, salt, saturated and trans fats, and sweets — and follow your provider’s guidance on alcohol use.

Stay active

Aim for about 30 minutes of physical activity most days of the week. Talk with your provider before starting a new routine.

Avoid tobacco

If you use tobacco, talk to your provider about a plan to quit.

Manage your weight

Speak with your provider about ways to achieve or maintain a healthy weight.

Managing medication

Your provider may prescribe medication to help control your diabetes. It's important to take your medication as prescribed to help reduce complications that can affect your kidneys,  eyes, nerves and heart.¹⁷

Insulin

Many people with diabetes rely on insulin to help keep their blood sugar in a healthy range. There are different types of insulin and different ways to take it. Some methods deliver insulin at set times, while others provide a steady dose throughout the day. Your provider will determine what’s appropriate based on your needs.

Statins

Statins may be prescribed to help support blood vessel health and lower cholesterol. By helping reduce the buildup of plaque in the arteries, statins can improve blood flow and may help lower the risk of cardiovascular complications associated with diabetes.

Use reminders or a pill organizer  to help remember doses.
Sign up for automatic refills or 90-day supplies to avoid running out.

Refill early to plan for travel  or changes in your routine.
Talk with your provider or pharmacist about side effects or concerns.

Make a plan with your provider

At your next visit, ask your provider about treatment options and lifestyle changes that can support your health.

Get Support

Partner with your care team

You don't have to manage your diabetes alone. Talking with your care team,  scheduling important screenings and taking advantage of resources can help you stay informed  and supported.

Your next visit

Your provider can help answer questions and guide your care. Whether it's your first visit or a routine follow-up appointment, consider asking these questions.

Which type of diabetes do I have?
What are my blood sugar goals?
How often should I have blood sugar tests, such as an A1C test?
What are the signs of low and high blood sugar — and what should I do if that happens?
What are my treatment options, such as taking insulin or using a continuous glucose monitor?
What lifestyle changes can help manage my diabetes, such as nutrition or fitness plans?
Are there other tests I should complete for my kidneys, eyes and feet?
How can diabetes affect things like my blood pressure, cholesterol or the medications I take?
What should I do if I miss a dose of diabetes medication or have side effects?
What resources, programs and technologies are available to help me?

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Taking action to manage your diabetes

Schedule time with your provider. If you need help finding one, call the number on your member ID card.
Ask your provider which screenings, medication and care options are right for you.
Build healthy routines and stay consistent with your medication and overall care plan. 
Visit the My Care Checklist on your member site or the UnitedHealthcare® app to see which screenings you’re due for.

Sources

¹ American Diabetes Association. “Diabetes and Statistics.” n.d.
² American Diabetes Association. “About Diabetes.” n.d.
³ Centers for Disease Control and Prevention . “How Diabetes Can Affect Your Body (infographic).” May 2024.
⁴ National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. “Managing Diabetes.” n.d.
⁵ American Diabetes Association. “Check Your Blood Glucose | Diabetes Testing & Monitoring.” n.d.
⁶ Mayo Clinic. “Diabetic nephropathy (kidney disease) – Symptoms & causes.” October 2023.
⁷ Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Diabetes and Chronic Kidney Disease.” May 2024.
⁸ National Kidney Foundation. “Urine albumin-creatinine ratio (uACR).” May 2023.
⁹ National Kidney Foundation. “Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR).” July 2022.
¹⁰ Ibid.
¹¹ American Diabetes Association. “Eye Health Resources” – Clinical Support. n.d.
¹² National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. “Diabetic Eye Disease.” n.d.
¹³ National Eye Institute. “People With Diabetes Can Prevent Vision Loss.” n.d.
¹⁴ CDC. “Promoting Eye Health.” May 2024.
¹⁵ CDC. “Health and Economic Benefits of Diabetes Interventions.” July 2024.
¹⁶ Mayo Clinic. “Diabetes management: How lifestyle, daily routine affect blood sugar.” January 2024.
¹⁷ American Heart Association. “Diabetes Medications.” April 2024.

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