Managing Diabetes and Vision Health
Nearly one in ten people is estimated to have diabetes, according to a 2014 report from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
The disease is related to problems in all areas of health, with vision being one of the most affected. We’re committed to researching and providing the best treatment and prevention plans for each of our patients (and those they care for) with diabetes.
One Of The Best Ways To Detect Diabetes Early Is Regular Eye Exams
It may surprise you to learn that many people first learn about their diabetes risk through regular eye exams. By looking closely at your eyes, we can see your blood vessels in action, and catch early signs of overall health conditions. Working with your primary care physician, we help you manage the risk that diabetes presents to your eyesight.
Diabetes Contributes To A Number Of Eye Problems
The most prominent problems that arise from eye damage caused by diabetes are glaucoma, cataracts, and retinopathy.
Glaucoma occurs when the fluid contained in the eye does not drain properly. Diabetes restricts this drainage, causing a buildup in pressure which damages the eye’s tiny blood vessels and optic nerve. People with diabetes are 40 percent more likely to suffer from glaucoma than people without the disease.
Although many people without diabetes develop cataracts at some point in their life, those with diabetes are 60 percent more likely to get them. Cataracts also tend to develop earlier and progress faster for people with diabetes.
Blood vessels flowing to the retina may be restricted and damaged by high levels of blood sugar. Diabetic retinopathy accounts for 12 percent of all new cases of blindness in the U.S. It is also the leading cause of blindness for people ages 20 to 64 years.
Our Mission Includes BOTH Treatment And Prevention
Most of us know at least one person who is impacted by diabetes. If you have a friend, family member, neighbor, or coworker who has diabetes, share this information with them! It’s essential that they not postpone their scheduled eye exams. The people you share this with will appreciate your help and concern.
In Many Cases, Diabetes-Related Vision Loss Can Be Prevented
Vision loss related to diabetes can often be prevented through modern optometry and proactive management. If someone you care for is living with diabetes, or if the disease affects you personally, we invite you to let us help.
Thanks for your trust in our practice. We appreciate you!
Top image by Flickr user Lachlan Hardy used under Creative Commons Attribution-Sharealike 4.0 license. Image cropped and modified from original.