Reduce Your Risk of Losing Vision to Diabetic Eye Disease

05.07.2021

Diabetic Eye Disease Treatment in Wilmington, NCIf you have diabetes, you may already be aware that it can cause complications that affect the health of your heart, kidneys and nerves. But did you know that diabetes can also put your ocular health at risk? Poorly controlled diabetes can lead to irreversible vision loss and even blindness.

The Intracoastal Eye team has many years of experience managing cases of diabetic eye disease, an umbrella term that encompasses diabetic retinopathy, diabetic macular edema, cataracts and glaucoma. We believe that with the right preventative measures, you can lower your risk of losing vision to diabetic eye disease. Read on as we suggest the most sensible steps to take.

Control Your Blood Sugar, Cholesterol and Blood Pressure

Managing your diabetes properly and keeping your blood sugar, cholesterol and blood pressure levels in a healthy range greatly benefits your general and ocular health. Our doctors recommend that you take your medications as prescribed and follow up with the endocrinologist or primary care physician managing your diabetes regularly. This will slow or prevent the development of vision-related complications such as diabetic retinopathy.

Commit to a Healthy Lifestyle

Regular exercise and a healthy diet is good for your diabetes, and promotes ocular health, too. Be proactive about working physical activity into your daily routine whenever possible. Re-evaluate your diet to ensure you are consuming enough vitamin-rich foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins. If you smoke, work with your doctor on a cessation plan.

Schedule Annual Eye Exams

Early detection and prompt treatment for diabetic eye disease can significantly reduce the risk of losing vision. But often, there are no noticeable symptoms or changes in vision until the late stage of diabetic eye disease. Do not wait until you experience noticeable symptoms to schedule an eye exam. Get into the routine of seeing our eye doctors annually for comprehensive exams. This allows us the chance to evaluate your internal eye structures for signs of early damage. If we do see something, we can quickly intervene to manage the problem.

Know the Warning Signs of a Problem

Finally, familiarize yourself with the warning signs of diabetic eye disease. If you experience symptoms such as blurry vision or the sudden onset of floaters — i.e., spots or shapes that appear to drift in front of your eyes — in between annual eye exams, contact our team promptly to schedule an evaluation. It is always better to be safe than sorry.

Treatment for diabetic eye disease continues to evolve with time. With many modern treatment options, you need a knowledgeable eye doctor to manage your care. For information about prevention or treatment of diabetic eye disease, we are here for you. Call or email us today.