Diabetes reviews, complications and annual checks
Diabetes care is not just about blood sugar levels. Regular reviews and checks are designed to reduce the risk of long-term complications and support people to live well with diabetes over time.
Many people find the number of tests and appointments confusing or overwhelming. This page explains what diabetes reviews involve, why different checks are recommended, and how general practice supports long-term diabetes care alongside specialist services.
These articles are intended as educational sources, not diagnostic nor taking place of a proper medical assessment. If you need help, please book an appointment with one of our GP’s.
Why regular diabetes reviews matter
Persistently raised blood glucose can affect blood vessels and nerves throughout the body. These changes often develop silently before symptoms appear.
Regular reviews aim to:
- Detect early signs of complications
- Reduce cardiovascular risk
- Adjust treatment before problems arise
- Support self-management and wellbeing
From a GP perspective, prevention and early detection are key.
What is covered in a diabetes review
Diabetes reviews are structured but personalised. Not every check happens at every appointment.
Common areas reviewed include:
- Blood glucose control
- Blood pressure
- Cholesterol
- Kidney function
- Weight and lifestyle factors
- Medication review
- Mental wellbeing
Reviews provide an opportunity to raise concerns, not just to review numbers.
Blood glucose monitoring (HbA1c)
HbA1c reflects average blood glucose over the previous 2–3 months.
It helps:
- Assess overall glucose control
- Guide treatment decisions
- Monitor trends over time
Targets vary depending on age, type of diabetes, treatment and overall health. Results are interpreted in context rather than in isolation.
Blood pressure and cardiovascular risk
People with diabetes have an increased risk of heart disease and stroke.
Blood pressure checks help:
- Reduce strain on blood vessels
- Lower cardiovascular risk
- Protect kidney and eye health
Cholesterol levels are often monitored alongside blood pressure as part of overall risk reduction.
Kidney health checks
Diabetes can affect the kidneys over time.
Monitoring usually includes:
- Blood tests for kidney function
- Urine tests for protein (albumin)
Early changes are often reversible or manageable if detected promptly.
Eye screening
Diabetic eye disease can develop without symptoms initially.
Regular retinal screening:
- Detects early changes
- Allows treatment before vision is affected
- Is separate from routine optician sight tests
Attendance is important even when vision feels normal.
Foot checks
Nerve damage and reduced circulation can affect the feet.
Foot checks assess:
- Sensation
- Circulation
- Skin integrity
Early identification of problems reduces the risk of ulcers and infection.
Diabetes complications: what GPs look out for
Complications are not inevitable, but awareness is important.
Possible long-term complications include:
- Heart disease and stroke
- Kidney disease
- Eye disease
- Nerve damage
- Foot problems
Regular reviews focus on reducing risk rather than waiting for symptoms.
Mental wellbeing and diabetes
Living with diabetes can be demanding and emotionally tiring.
GPs are alert to:
- Diabetes distress
- Burnout
- Anxiety around glucose control
- Low mood
Mental wellbeing is an important part of diabetes care, not an optional extra.
How primary care supports diabetes care
In primary care, GPs:
- Coordinate regular reviews
- Monitor test results over time
- Adjust medication where appropriate
- Address related health issues
- Support lifestyle changes
- Refer to specialist services when needed
Care is collaborative and ongoing.
When additional review or referral is needed
Further assessment may be needed if:
- Blood glucose remains difficult to control
- Complications are suspected
- New symptoms develop
- There is uncertainty about diagnosis or management
- Mental wellbeing is significantly affected
Early review helps prevent escalation.
When to seek urgent medical help
Seek urgent advice if you experience:
- Symptoms of very high or very low blood glucose
- Signs of infection that are not settling
- Sudden visual changes
- New foot wounds or ulcers
- Vomiting or dehydration
Prompt assessment is important in these situations.
When to speak to a GP
You should seek GP review if:
- Blood test results are unclear or concerning
- Symptoms develop or worsen
- You feel unsure about management plans
- Lifestyle changes feel overwhelming
- You have concerns about long-term risks
Support is appropriate at any stage, not only after complications develop.
GP insight
Regular diabetes reviews can feel repetitive, but each check serves a purpose. In general practice, the focus is on long-term health, early intervention and supporting people to live well with diabetes rather than reacting only when problems occur.
Further Reading and Hub Links
Visit our Diabetes and Endocrine Health hub or browse more health topics in the AccessGP Knowledge Base.
If you have questions about diabetes reviews, test results or long-term monitoring, an online GP appointment can help clarify next steps and provide personalised advice.
Last reviewed by Dr Zamiel Hussain, GMC registered GP
Updated: 26 January 2026