Diabetic eye disease, also known as diabetic retinopathy, is a serious condition that can lead to blindness if left untreated. It is the leading cause of vision loss among individuals with diabetes. The disease occurs when high levels of blood sugar damage the blood vessels in the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye.
One of the concerning aspects of diabetic eye disease is that it often develops without any noticeable symptoms in its early stages. This means that individuals may not be aware of the damage occurring to their eyes until it reaches a more advanced stage. Therefore, regular eye exams are crucial for early detection and intervention.
According to the National Eye Institute, it is estimated that by 2030, approximately 11 million people will be affected by diabetic retinopathy. This statistic highlights the urgency of raising awareness about the disease, as well as the importance of promoting routine eye screenings for individuals with diabetes. Early detection, timely treatment, and proper follow-up care are essential to prevent vision loss and maintain eye health in those with diabetes.
What Is Diabetes?
Diabetes is a disease that affects the body’s ability to produce or use insulin effectively to control blood sugar (glucose) levels. Too much glucose in the blood for a long time can cause damage to many parts of the body. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over 34 million American adults live with diabetes, and around 88 million Americans live with prediabetes. However, nearly 85% are unaware.
If you are at risk for diabetes, you are also at risk for diabetes-related eye disease and vision loss, but a comprehensive eye exam can help catch any eye health issues. Around 20% of people first learn they have diabetes as a result of a comprehensive eye exam.
What Is Diabetic Eye Disease?
Diabetic eye disease is a term for many eye problems that can be a result of diabetes. Here is a list of diabetic eye diseases and diagrams of the eye from the American Academy of Ophthalmology to enhance your knowledge:
- Diabetic Retinopathy – is when blood vessels in the retina swell, leak, or close off completely. Abnormal new blood vessels can also grow on the surface of the retina.
- Diabetic Macular Edema – Macular edema happens when fluid builds up on the retina and causes swelling and blurry vision. Diabetic macular edema can lead to permanent vision loss.
- Diabetes and Cataracts – Excess blood sugar from diabetes can cause cataracts. You may need cataract surgery to remove lenses that are clouded by the effects of diabetes. Maintaining good control of your blood sugar helps prevent permanent clouding of the lens.
- Diabetes and Glaucoma – Glaucoma is a group of diseases that cause damage to your eye’s optic nerve. This damage leads to irreversible loss of vision. Having diabetes doubles your chance of getting glaucoma.
Keep Your Eye Health on TRACK!
Prioritize YOUR eye health this National Diabetes Month and Diabetic Eye Disease Month! Safeguard your vision and ward off diabetes-related eye damage with these essential steps:
- Maintain good blood sugar control.
- Keep your blood pressure and cholesterol levels within your target range to lower your risk for vision loss and eye diseases.
- Quit smoking. Quitting smoking lowers your risk for diabetes-related eye diseases and improves your health in many other ways.
- If you have delayed scheduling your eye exam with your eye doctor, now is the perfect time to get back on track to call and schedule TODAY! Also, please be sure to ALWAYS complete all follow-up exams your eye doctor recommends.
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