Did you know that diabetes can affect your eyesight, sometimes without you noticing any changes? Over time, high blood sugar levels and extreme fluctuations in blood sugar level can damage the tiny blood vessels in the back of your eye. This increases risk of complications in the eye and can potentially lead to vision loss. The good news is that there are ways to protect your sight!
What can you do to protect your eyes?
Prevention starts with good management of your diabetes. Keeping your blood sugar under control is one of the most important ways to lower your risk of diabetic eye damage. Keep the following points in mind:
- Have a balanced and nutritious diet. Find ways to include complex carbohydrates, fiber, complete proteins, healthy fats, and limited amounts of sugary foods.
- Commit to regular physical activity throughout your week. Even moderate levels of exercise can be great, don’t feel like you have to push yourself to your limits each time you workout.
- Put a priority on having a getting good sleep. Studies have shown the relationship between poor sleep and insulin resistance and fasting glucose levels.
- Don’t forget how other health conditions can influence diabetes, such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol. Keep on top of those things too!
- Schedule a dilated comprehensive eye exam every year, even if your vision seems perfectly fine.
Now if diabetic eye disease does develop, don’t lose hope! Treatments are available that can help protect your vision and prevent further damage. This could mean treatment with specific medications or treatment with a specialized laser. Early detection makes a big difference, so make sure you are having a professional check your eyes.
This November, make your eye health a priority. Your vision is worth protecting and diabetes doesn’t have to lead to diabetic eye disease!
