Our eyes are one of the most important parts of us. It has even been called as the windows to the soul. It helps us to function better as human beings by allowing us to see what we do, gaining knowledge by reading, learning by watching, and more importantly feeding our souls with the satisfaction of being able to see our loved ones and their progress throughout life. For us that have the privilege of living with it, it is not only a convenience or luxury but a necessity.
Diabetes can affect the eyes if the blood glucose is too high. Diabetic eye disease is a group of eye conditions that affect diabetics. It includes diabetic retinopathy, diabetic macular edema (DME), cataract, and glaucoma. They have the potential to cause severe vision loss and blindness. You may be able to avoid having these eye problems if you:
#1. Control your blood glucose
Studies found that diabetics with poorly controlled blood glucose were four times more likely to have eye problems compared to those who keep their levels close to normal. Remember to take your medication as ordered.
#2. Control your blood pressure
Diabetics are more likely to have high blood pressure which can cause damage to the blood vessels in the eyes. It is recommended for diabetics to keep their blood pressure at 130/80mmHg or lower. Have your blood pressure checked often, at least twice a year.
#3. Quit smoking
Smoking damages the tiny blood vessels that are in the eyes. It is also linked to an increase in pressure inside the eye leading to glaucoma and optic nerve damage. If you quit smoking, your risk of heart attack, stroke, nerve disease, and kidney disease will be reduced.
#4. Eye exam
Ask your doctor for a dilated eye exam. Special photographs of the retina can replace the dilated eye exam. This is called a digital retinal photography. It should be done at least once a year even if your vision may seem fine.
#5. Preserve your remaining vision
If you already have damage to your eyes, ask your doctor about vision rehabilitation or devices that may help you with your vision. Prevent further damage using the tips above.
With the proper steps of prevention, it is found that these steps can prevent and delay the progression of diabetic eye disease in patients. Patients with type 1 diabetes above the age of 10 years should have an initial eye exam within 3-5 years of the diagnosis while patients with type 2 diabetes should have an eye exam shortly after the diagnosis is made.
[expand title=”References“]
- 5 tips for preserving your vision. Joslin Diabetes Center. URL Link. Accessed 1/28/2017.
- Eye Care. American Diabetes Association. URL Link. Accessed 1/28/2017.
- Diabetic eye disease, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. URL Link. Accessed 1/28/2017.
- Diabetic retinopathy. American Diabetes Association. Diabetes Care. 2002; 25(1):s90-s93.
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