November is Diabetic Eye Disease Awareness Month, a perfect reminder of how crucial it is to protect your vision, especially if you or a loved one has diabetes. High blood sugar can have a serious impact on your eyes, leading to conditions that could affect your sight permanently if not detected early. Here's a closer look at the common eye conditions linked to diabetes, and how you can take steps to keep your eyes healthy.
Common Diabetic Eye Conditions
Diabetic Retinopathy- This is the leading cause of vision loss among people with diabetes. Diabetic retinopathy occurs when high blood sugar damages the tiny blood vessels in the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. In the early stages, you might not notice symptoms, but over time, it can lead to vision problems, including blurred vision, floaters, or even blindness.
Diabetic Macular Edema (DME)- DME is a complication of diabetic retinopathy that happens when fluid builds up in the macula, the part of your eye that gives you sharp, detailed vision. This swelling can cause your central vision to blur or distort, making it hard to read or see faces clearly.
Cataracts- Cataracts, which cause the lens of your eye to become cloudy, are more common and tend to develop earlier in people with diabetes. This can result in blurry vision and difficulty seeing at night, but cataracts are treatable with surgery to restore clear vision.
Glaucoma- Glaucoma is another condition that diabetics are twice as likely to develop. It occurs when pressure builds up inside the eye, damaging the optic nerve. Over time, glaucoma can cause vision loss, starting with peripheral vision and eventually leading to blindness if untreated.
Why Early Detection Matters?
The scary thing about diabetic eye disease is that it often has no early warning signs. That’s why regular, comprehensive eye exams are so important, especially for people with diabetes. During an eye exam, your eye doctor can check for early signs of these conditions before they cause noticeable symptoms. Early detection and timely treatment can help prevent or slow vision loss.
What Can You Do to Protect Your Vision?
Taking control of your diabetes is the most important step you can take to protect your eyes. Keep your blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels in check. If you smoke, quitting can also reduce your risk of developing diabetic eye disease.
This Diabetic Eye Disease Awareness Month
Make your eye health a priority!
At LivingHope Vision Clinic we’re here to help you stay on top of your eye care. Schedule a comprehensive eye exam today, and let’s work together to protect your vision for the long term.
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