Too many people are unaware of the fact that diabetes increases the chances of vision loss. Diabetes is the primary cause of loss of sight in people between the ages of 20 and 74. One of the most serious complications of diabetes is when the retina is damaged by increased pressure in the blood vessels of the eye. This is called diabetic retinopathy. Diabetic retinopathy, a complication of diabetes that damages the retina, causes severe vision impairment and even blindness and is a risk for anyone with the disease.
Diabetic retinopathy can be unnoticed until significant retinal damage is done. Vision loss ultimately develops when the retinal blood vessels begin to leak. If the condition is not detected, blood vessels may become completely stopped up or additional vessels may begin to grow on the retina leading to irreparable loss of sight.
If you are diabetic and you notice any sort of vision problems, such as fluctuations in eyesight, floaters, double vision, shadows or spots or any pain in your eye schedule a visit with your optometrist. Cataracts and glaucoma are also more common in individuals with diabetes than in the average population.
With early detection and treatment, we can stop loss of eyesight. In addition to making sure to schedule a comprehensive eye exam annually if you are diabetic, keeping your glucose levels under control is essential to preserving your vision.
This month, spread awareness of the risks of diabetic retinopathy and consult with your optometrist if you have any questions. In this case, ignorance could cost you your precious eyesight