Since November is Diabetic Eye Disease Awareness Month it is important to learn what eye conditions arise from diabetes, what you can do to slow or manage eye conditions resulting from diabetes, and how you can continue to enjoy the activities you love.  There are several eye disorders that can arise from diabetes, such as, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration.  Diabetes causes abnormal changes in the body’s blood sugar levels. High levels of blood sugar can alter the blood flow to the body’s organs, including the eyes. Eye damage occurs when chronically high amounts of blood sugar begin to clog or damage the blood vessels within the eye’s retina.

One of the most important things you can do to protect your vision is by getting a yearly eye exam.  Though there is no cure for diabetic retinopathy, there are various treatments that can help reduce the symptoms.  Scheduling an annual comprehensive eye exam can allow your doctor to catch changes in your vision early and develop a plan to manage or treat any eye conditions that arise.

Other ways you can help prevent diabetic eye disease is by maintaining a regular exercise schedule, monitor your blood sugar level, keep your blood pressure and cholesterol at a safe level, stop smoking, eat a healthy balanced diet including fresh fruits and vegetables.  To read more on protecting your vision through a healthy diet, check out other articles found on this blog, such as: Your Eye Are What You Eat: How a Healthy Diet Helps You Save Your Eyes from Harm.

If you have developed diabetic retinopathy and your vision has become impaired, you are not alone.  Making a few simple changes and asking your doctor about low vision aids and devices, will allow you to continue to do the activities you enjoy.