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Vision and Diabetes: How to Prevent Eye Complications
Those with diabetes are at an increased risk of affecting their vision due to elevated blood sugar levels. High blood sugar causes damage to the blood vessels in the back of the eye, leading to a decline of vision – this is known as diabetic retinopathy and is the most common cause of blindness among those who are of working age.
Signs & Symptoms of Diabetic Retinopathy
It is important that individuals with diabetes are aware of the signs and symptoms of diabetes-related eye complications. These include:
- Blurry vision
- Sudden vision loss
- Objects appearing distorted
- Seeing spots or floaters
- Bright flashes of light
Preventing Diabetic Retinopathy
It is important that people with Diabetes take steps to protect their eye and overall health. Doing regular eye exams allows changes to the eye to be caught early, which is crucial for maintaining vision.
Furthermore, individuals should manage their diabetes to reduce the risk of retinopathy. This can be done by:
- Taking medication as prescribed
- Checking blood sugar levels regularly
- Maintaining a healthy lifestyle
- Eating balanced meals
- Exercising regularly
Diagnosis and Treatment
If left untreated, diabetic retinopathy can lead to blindness. Therefore, receiving regular eye exams every 1-2 years is recommended for those with diabetes to check for any changes in the back of the eye. Early detection and treatment is key for maintaining vision and health.
Diabetic retinopathy can be treated in a few ways, including laser surgery, anti-VEGF injections, and intraocular photocoagulation. Consulting an ophthalmologist is recommended for the most suitable treatment for an individual’s case.
Conclusion
Individuals with diabetes need to be aware of how their condition can affect their vision in order to make sure they take the necessary steps to protect their eye and overall health. Having regular eye exams is essential for early detection of any changes, and necessary steps should be taken to prevent diabetic retinopathy – such as managing diabetes, eating balanced meals, and exercising regularly. If changes are detected, speaking to an ophthalmologist for the most suitable treatment course is advised.