The month of November is Diabetic Eye Disease Month, and it is a great time to learn more about these unique eye conditions and how you can protect your vision. Our providers and Michael Bert educate patients on what they can do to prevent and treat these common concerns. Below are just a few factors you should know about the link between diabetes and vision health.
What is diabetic eye disease?
Our team describes diabetic eye disease as a specific group of medical conditions that can lead to vision loss and blindness in those with diabetes. It includes:
- Diabetic retinopathy, which is damage to the blood vessels in the retina
- Diabetic macular edema, which causes a build-up of fluid in the macula (the central part of the retina)
- Glaucoma, caused by increased pressure in the eye.
Who is at risk for diabetic eye disease?
Anyone diagnosed with diabetes is at risk for developing diabetic eye disease. However, people with type 1 diabetes and those who have had diabetes for a long time are more likely to develop the condition.
How can I prevent diabetic eye disease?
The best way you can prevent diabetic eye diseases is to control your blood sugar levels and manage your diabetes effectively. This can be done with diet, exercise, and medication. You should also have regular eye exams so that any problems can be caught early and treated.
What are the noticeable symptoms of diabetic eye disease?
Symptoms of diabetic eye disease can include:
- Blurry vision
- Difficulty seeing at night
- Floaters or flashes of light in the field of vision
- Pain in your eyes
If you experience any of these symptoms, you should see your eye doctor right away.
How are diabetic eye diseases treated?
Treatment for diabetic eye diseases depends on the severity of the condition. In some cases, glasses or contact lenses may help improve vision. More serious cases may require surgery to prevent vision loss or blindness.
How do I schedule an appointment?
Our providers and Michael Bert of Shenandoah Lasik and Cataract Center of Winchester, VA, work with patients who have diabetes to monitor their eye health–not just in November, but all year round! If you are interested in requesting an examination or appointment at our office, call 540-722-6200 to request an appointment.