1. Learn the Signs of Diabetic Retinopathy
The eye problem most often associated with diabetes is diabetic retinopathy. The retina is the area at the back of the inside of the eyeball, the part of the eye that is sensitive to light. In people with diabetes, the blood vessels of the retina begin to swell and leak blood, and in some cases new unnecessary blood vessel tissue grows in the retina as well. The result is impaired vision and, in many cases, blindness. Retinopathy is not the only eye disorder connected with diabetes, however. Cataracts, cloudy areas that form on the lens, and glaucoma, an increase in fluid pressure inside the eye, are also associated with both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes.
2. When Sweet Goes Sour
To decrease the risk of developing diabetic eye disease, or to slow its progress if you already have it, learn how to control your blood sugar. According to researchers, people with diabetes who keep their blood sugar close to normal are far less likely to develop eye problems than those who don't. Diet and diabetes medications are keys to maintaining optimal blood sugar levels. Monitor your blood sugar regularly at home.
3. Let Up on the Pressure
Keep your blood pressure down to protect your blood pressure. High blood pressure damage the blood vessels in your eye, and accelerate any blood leaking from damaged vessels. Exercise, a low sodium diet, weight management and medication can reduce your blood pressure to healthy levels. Track you blood pressure regularly at home with a blood pressure monitor.
4. Kick the Habit
Stop smoking to keep your eyes healthy. Smoking contributes to many health problems, and high blood pressure is one of them. Smoking decreases the amount of oxygen in the blood, which makes it harder for body tissues to stay healthy. Smoking also weakens blood vessels. All of these contributing factors can make eye problems worse.
5. Take the Exam
Diabetics should undergo an eye exam with an ophthalmologist every year. During a dilated exam, the doctor can look for damage to the retina, including leaky blood vessels and nerve damage. The examiner will also test your vision and measure the pressure inside your eyes. Eye doctors use laser surgery to shrink enlarged and abnormal blood vessels in the retina and a process called vitrectomy to draw excess fluid out of the eye. These procedures can save your sight if you have diabetic eye disease.
