Diabetes affects 21 Million Americans and claims 240 million victims worldwide. Type 2 Diabetes is the biggest portion of those at 95 %. Another 14 million Americans have elevated blood sugars that are indicative of pre diabetes. They are on the road to getting the 'BIG D' and don't even know it.

See your doctor right away if you notice any of the signs and symptoms of Type 2 Diabetes, especially increased thirst and urination. And if you have Type 2 Diabetes, get regular checkups to monitor your condition. Control is absolutely essential for diabetes. The sooner you get it the better off you'll be.

How often you see your doctor or other members of your health care team for checkups depends on how well you're doing. If you're having trouble managing your blood glucose levels or if you're changing medication, you may need to contact a member of your health care team every week. Your doctor may even recommend that you stop in daily until your blood sugar level stabilizes.

But if you're feeling well and keeping your blood sugar within the range you and your doctor have agreed on, you may need checkups only once every three months.

In addition, have a thorough physical exam every year. During this exam, your doctor will look for any medical problems related to your diabetes.

Because foot care is especially important for people with diabetes, your doctor may recommend that you see a podiatrist - a doctor who specializes in foot care. A podiatrist can teach you how to trim your toenails to avoid infections, buy properly fitted shoes, and prevent corns and calluses. If you have poor blood circulation in your legs or aren't able to see well enough to trim your nails, have your podiatrist do it for you.

Most people with diabetes should also have a thorough eye exam every year. If your diabetes isn't well controlled or if you have high blood pressure or kidney disease or are pregnant, you may need to see your ophthalmologist more often.