Diabetes is a health condition where a person’s body doesn’t make sufficient insulin or can’t use the insulin it produces properly. Those with diabetes are more prone to certain eye diseases, such as diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma and cataracts. However, there are different things you can do to lower the chances of having these eye conditions.
This Diabetic Eye Disease Awareness Month, your local optometrist shares tips to help those with diabetes preserve their vision and reduce their likelihood of developing eye disease.
Diabetic eye disease usually doesn’t manifest symptoms in its early stages. When your ophthalmologist performs a comprehensive dilated eye exam, the person can check your retina and optic nerve more thoroughly for signs of damage. Regular eye doctor visits will help with the early detection and treatment of the eye condition.
Eye care experts advise diabetics to control their blood sugar. Excessively high blood sugar levels can affect the shape of the eye’s lens, leading to blurry vision. However, your vision should go back to normal once you’ve managed your blood sugar levels. Keep in mind that high blood sugar can damage your eye’s blood vessels as well. You can avoid these issues by managing your blood sugar well.
Good health habits can go a long way when it comes to managing your diabetes and preserving your vision. By keeping your blood pressure and cholesterol at healthy levels, you can reduce your risk for eye disease and vision loss. If you’re smoking, you should quit, and don’t start if you’re not. This bad habit can increase your likelihood of developing diabetic retinopathy. Regular exercise and eating healthy are also good for your eyes and diabetes.
For your vision and eye care needs, you can depend on Northern Virginia Doctors of Optometry. We offer a wide range of services, including LASIK eye surgery, dry eye treatment, vision correction and more. Call us at (703) 660-9494, or fill out our contact form to request an appointment. We assist patients in Alexandria, VA, and surrounding communities.