People with diabetes are at higher risk for vision disorders.
But with regular eye exams, problems can be detected and treated early.
If you’re one of the more than 26 million Americans with diabetes, you know how important it is to take good care of yourself — including proper medication, close monitoring of your blood sugar levels, a healthy diet, and regular exercise. But did you know that diabetes is the leading cause of blindness in adults ages 20 to 74? That makes regular vision care vital to your overall health.
If you have diabetes, your doctor at Nilsen Eye Care will take these extra steps to help protect your vision and eye health:
A comprehensive annual eye exam is important to evaluate these common eye problems associated with diabetes:
Diabetic Retinopathy. This condition is a microvascular disorder that occurs due to the long-term effects of diabetes. It includes hemorrhages, leaky blood vessels, and swelling in the retina. Because its initial symptoms are very slight or even unnoticeable, diabetic retinopathy often goes undiagnosed unless detected during an eye exam.
Glaucoma. If you have diabetes, you are 40 percent more likely to develop glaucoma, according to the American Diabetes Association. Glaucoma occurs when the increased fluid pressure in the eyes damages the nerve fibers in the optic nerve.
Cataracts. A cataract clouds the eye’s lens, which blocks the passage of light. The condition is typically associated with aging, but the American Diabetic Association says diabetics are 60 percent more likely to develop cataracts.
In addition to having a comprehensive annual eye exam, be sure to see your eye care provider promptly ifyou notice any of the following changes in your vision:
For all our patients — but especially individuals with diabetes — you will see the difference caring makes at Nilsen Eye Care.