I’m having diabetes complication tests. What is involved?

I am rather surprised that your diabetes doctor didn’t tell you what tests were planned, so I think that you should ask again for specifics. At all events, they are likely to involve detecting changes in the small blood vessels of the retina at the back of the eye and in the kidney. At its very simplest, it might just involve a blood test for C reactive protein. More probably, it will mean having a look in your eyes either rather simply with a small hand held instrument called an ophthalmoscope and possibly a more sophisticated evaluation taking a picture of the retina with a digital camera. As far as the kidneys are concerned, it is most probably a test on a urine sample for microalbumin will be done. None of these tests are what would be called invasive or painful.

DOB
Additional comments from Dr. Andrea Scaramuzza:

Complication tests are done in order to early detect any minimal signs of complication. For example, measuring microalbuminuria in urine can tell you when an amount above the normal range is detected, so you can take some measures to limit progression of kidney disease. The same holds true for the eyes examination or tests for evaluating nerve conduction. So I think that all you can do for having your situation under control is a good thing. I hope my answer was clearer to you than that of your diabetes team.

AS
Additional comments from Dr. Larry Deeb:

Likely, these would include eye exam, urine for microalbumin, lipid profile, and thyroid tests.

LD