What You Need to Know About Diabetes & Eye Health

Don't Forget About Your Eyes

Many people living with diabetes often feel overwhelmed with the amount of maintenance that goes into living a healthy life with the illness. Even the most organized and intentional individuals might struggle to keep track of their health holistically, but the first step to managing your diabetes is to have all of the necessary information at your disposal.

Diabetes can have negative effects on many parts of the body, and one of the most common areas affected are the eyes. In order to ensure the longevity of your vision, let’s explore how exactly the illness affects your eyes and steps that you can take to mitigate damage to them.

The link between diabetes and eye health

One of the most common eye problems associated with diabetes is diabetic retinopathy, a condition that occurs when high blood sugar levels damage the blood vessels in the retina. Over time, these blood vessels can become weak and leak fluid, leading to swelling and blurred vision. In more severe cases, abnormal blood vessels can grow in the retina, which can rupture and cause bleeding. This can lead to scarring, eventually causing vision loss or even blindness.

Another eye problem associated with diabetes is cataracts. This occurs when the eye's natural lens becomes cloudy, leading to blurry or hazy vision. While cataracts are a common problem for many people as they age, people with diabetes are more likely to develop them at an earlier age and have them progress more rapidly.

People with diabetes are also at increased risk for glaucoma, a condition that damages the optic nerve and can lead to vision loss. High blood sugar levels can damage the small blood vessels that nourish the optic nerve, leading to a build-up of pressure in the eye and damage to the optic nerve. People with diabetes are twice as likely to develop glaucoma than the general population.

Steps to protect eye health

There are several steps that people with diabetes can take to protect their vision and reduce the risk of eye problems. Some important precautions to take include:

1. Keep blood sugar levels under control 

The best way to prevent eye problems associated with diabetes is to keep blood sugar levels under control. This can be achieved through a combination of diet, exercise, and medication.

2. Regular eye exams

People with diabetes should have regular eye exams to check for signs of diabetic retinopathy, cataracts, and glaucoma. Eye exams should be done at least once a year, but more frequent exams may be necessary for people with advanced or poorly controlled diabetes.

3. Control blood pressure and cholesterol

High blood pressure and high cholesterol can increase the risk of eye problems associated with diabetes. People with diabetes should work with their healthcare providers to keep their blood pressure and cholesterol levels within a healthy range.

4. Quit smoking

It almost goes without saying, but smoking can increase the risk of eye problems associated with diabetes. People with diabetes who smoke should quit smoking to reduce their risk of eye problems and other complications.

5. Manage stress

High levels of stress can also increase the risk of eye problems associated with diabetes. People with diabetes should find ways to manage stress, such as through exercise, meditation, or other relaxation techniques. It’s important to find a way to relieve stress that you actually enjoy. While the suggestions listed above are certainly effective, spending time with your friends, engaging in a hobby, or pursuing creative activities are also great ways to decompress.

6. Wear protective eyewear

People with diabetes should wear protective eyewear when participating in activities that could cause eye injury, such as sports or working with power tools.

7. Follow a healthy diet: 

A healthy diet can help keep blood sugar levels under control and reduce the risk of eye problems associated with diabetes. People with diabetes should follow a diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats.

Living with and managing your diabetes might seem like a herculean task, but millions of Americans live healthy, active, and fulfilling lives, even with the illness. Protecting your vision is one way to do so. 

If you’d like to learn more about how technology can help manage your diabetes and protect the health of your vision, please don’t hesitate to contact us today!