Physical Exam for Type 2 Diabetes

If your doctor suspects that you have type 2 diabetes, he or she may do a complete physical exam. This means he or she may: Measure your height and weight. For children and teens, height and weight will be compared with what is considered normal for their age groups. Check your blood pressure. Check your eyes, including…

Physical Exam for Type 2 Diabetes

If your doctor suspects that you have
type 2 diabetes, he or she may do a complete physical
exam. This means he or she may:

  • Measure your height and weight. For children
    and teens, height and weight will be compared with what is considered normal
    for their age groups.
  • Check your
    blood pressure.
  • Check your eyes,
    including movement,
    pupil response to light, and the back of the eye
    (retina).
  • Check your
    thyroid gland. Your doctor will check
    this gland by feeling it while you swallow. Thyroid problems sometimes develop
    in people who have diabetes.
  • Listen to your heart and lung sounds
    and checking your blood flow (pulse) in your arms, legs, and feet. Your doctor also may listen to the blood flow in your neck (carotid) arteries
    for evidence of plaque buildup from
    atherosclerosis.
  • Check for a skin
    condition called
    acanthosis nigricans.
  • Examine your feet
    for sores, injuries, and decreased sensation. The health professional will
    gently touch your feet and hands with a vibrating metal tuning fork and small
    pieces of fine nylon fiber (microfilament testing).
  • Examine your
    nervous system by checking your reflexes and your ability to feel touch in your
    arms, legs, and feet.

ByHealthwise StaffPrimary Medical Reviewer E. Gregory Thompson, MD – Internal Medicine Specialist Medical Reviewer David C.W. Lau, MD, PhD, FRCPC – Endocrinology

Current as ofDecember 7, 2017