Blood sugar management is a high priority when you are living with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes. When you keep your blood sugar balanced, it helps to reduce the risk of many coinciding health conditions, including vision loss, neuropathy (limb loss), heart disease, and more.
If you have diabetes, you need to know how it affects your eyes. Here are a few essential things to learn about this health condition and your vision:
Because diabetes increases the risk of many eye conditions, eye doctors recommend frequent eye examinations. The goal is to monitor your vision and eyes so that any potential issues can be treated in the earliest stages.
Early detection is essential to minimize the impact that diabetes has on your eyes. If you need treatment, the results will be better when you seek medical care. Visiting an eye doctor regularly is the best way to catch the early signs, significantly improving potential outcomes.
Every time your blood sugar levels get too high, it puts stress on the major organs in your body. Changes in blood pressure and circulation can take a toll on the eyes.
In fact, high blood sugar levels can cause damage to the retina (located at the back of the eye). This condition is known as diabetic retinopathy and can lead to blindness when left untreated. Additionally, the risk of glaucoma increases in diabetic patients, which can also cause vision loss due to the increasing pressure on the optic nerve.
Another thing to consider is any history of diabetes and/or eye disease in your family. If you have loved ones with these health problems, there is a higher risk that you will also be diagnosed. Medical professionals can assist with the diagnosis and help you learn more about prevention strategies.
Prevention is always the best solution. But if you have already been diagnosed, then the goal is to slow the progression of your condition. Rest assured, knowing that many treatments are available to minimize your symptoms and protect your eyesight as much as possible.
Whether it’s time for a checkup or you need to talk to an eye doctor about diabetic eye conditions, our team is here to assist. Contact Temecula Creek Optometry to book an appointment and learn more about available services: (951) 302 -1331.