November is Diabetic Eye Disease Awareness Month
Millions of Americans have been diagnosed with diabetes and consequently suffer from its many symptoms. We want to make sure that you are fully aware of diabetes’ complications so that you know the proper steps in taking care of your health and controlling any risk for diabetes.
Diabetes’ Effects on Vision
You may not know this, but people with diabetes are at higher risk for blurred vision and blindness. These eye complications and symptoms include:
- Glaucoma – pressure builds up in the eyes and pinches the blood vessels that carry blood to the retina and optic nerve, and vision is gradually lost
- Cataracts – the eye’s clear lens cloud, blocking light and interfering with vision
- Nonproliferative retinopathy – capillaries in the back of the eye balloon and form pouches, but it does not usually cause vision loss at this stage
- Proliferative retinopathy – more serious form of retinopathy where the blood vessels are so damaged they close off and vision loss can occur
People with diabetes are 40% more likely to suffer from glaucoma and 60% more likely to develop cataracts than people without diabetes. However, most people with diabetes have nothing more than minor eye disorders! Early detection, timely treatment, and follow-up are key to preventing vision loss and blindness.
Milauskas Eye Institute recommends that people with diabetes have a comprehensive, dilated eye exam at least once a year.
