A diabetes diagnosis can be a life-changing experience. Not only do you need to make changes to your dietary choices, but you also need to keep track of medications and doctor’s visits. Diabetes impacts the way the body stores and uses sugar, which can have a domino effect on all systems within the body.
Even though you are working with your primary care doctor, you shouldn’t overlook the benefits of an exam with an eye doctor as well. Diabetic eye disease is a common problem. But, early treatments can be used to minimize the damage to your eyes.
This term refers to a group of eye conditions that often occur in people who have diabetes. Diabetic eye disease can encompass a variety of problems, including diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, cataracts, and diabetic macular edema.
Diabetic retinopathy is the most common type of diabetic eye disease. Chronically high blood sugar levels can cause the blood vessels in the retina to change. Eventually, the blood vessels can be damaged and leak fluid, which can eventually lead to a loss of vision.
Early symptoms of diabetic retinopathy are difficult to detect. Most people don’t notice a change in their eyes until it is too late. So, the best thing that you can do is maintain regular eye exams if you have been diagnosed with diabetes. These appointments enable the optometrist to diagnose eye conditions in the early stages, helping with the long-term prognosis for your vision.
Taking control of your blood sugar levels can help to control and minimize the damage that is done to your vision. It is important that you stick to a healthy diet, use prescribed medication as directed, and maintain a regular exercise routine. Additionally, your optometrist can offer recommendations or treatments that might be needed to slow the progression of the eye disease.
Whether you have diabetes or not, regular eye exams can be a great way to detect early symptoms of eye disease. For more information, schedule an exam with an experienced optometrist in the area. You are invited to call our Temecula office at (951) 302-1331 or our Murrieta office at (951) 600-9226.