If you have diabetes, it’s important to understand that the disease can affect your eyes in a number of ways. For example, high blood sugar levels can cause damage to blood vessels in the eyes, leading to vision problems. Additionally, diabetic retinopathy is a condition that can occur when the blood vessels in the retina are damaged, leading to vision loss. Cataracts and glaucoma are also more common in people with diabetes.
At Holtebeck Eye Center in Brookfield, we specialize in providing comprehensive eye care services, including diabetic eye care. Dr. Holtebeck and our team of eye care professionals have the expertise and experience to help those with diabetes to maintain healthy eyes and avoid eye problems that could lead to vision loss.
Schedule Regular Eye Exams
One of the most valuable things that people with diabetes can do to take care of their eyes is to attend regular eye exams. Annual eye exams are crucial for detecting eye problems early on before they become more severe. During an eye exam, our eye doctors can assess the health of your eyes and detect any changes that could lead to vision loss. These exams are especially vital for patients who have diabetes, as they are at a higher risk for developing eye problems.
Keep Regular Appointments with Your Primary Medical Doctor
Your visits with your primary care doctor are crucial in preventing complications from diabetes such as vision loss, heart attack, and stroke. Monitoring your blood sugar through routine labs, as well as monitoring blood pressure and lipid profiles are a very part of care in all patients, especially for those with diabetes.
Avoid Smoking
Quitting smoking is another important step that you can take to protect your eyes if you have diabetes as smoking can increase the risk of eye problems. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that smoking increases the risk of developing eye problems, including diabetic retinopathy, which can cause blindness. Quitting smoking can reduce this risk and improve your overall health.
Eat A Healthy Diet
Following a healthy diet is also crucial for patients with diabetes who want to maintain healthy eyes. A poor diet tends to increase blood sugar levels and can damage blood vessels in the eyes, leading to vision problems. On the other hand, a healthy diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats has a variety of benefits. It can help keep your blood sugar levels and blood pressure in check, which can reduce your risk of eye problems.
Exercise Regularly
Regular exercise is also important for maintaining healthy eyes. Exercise can help you maintain a healthy weight, keep your blood sugar and cholesterol levels in check, and reduce your risk of eye problems. Be sure to talk with your doctor about what will work best for you, but most individuals can aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise on most days of the week.
Take Prescribed Medications
If you have diabetes, it is essential to take any medications that your doctor has prescribed. Following their guidelines and prescriptions can help manage your blood sugar levels and blood pressure. As mentioned, high blood pressure and high cholesterol can cause damage to blood vessels in the eyes. Additionally, it is critical to communicate with your doctor if you notice any changes in your vision, such as blurred vision or floaters, or if you have any other concerns about your eyes. This information will help them make any necessary corrections to your prescriptions and other health guidelines.
Prevent Vision Loss Due To Diabetes
If you have diabetes, taking certain steps is essential for maintaining healthy vision. By getting regular eye exams, quitting smoking, following a healthy diet, exercising regularly, taking medication as prescribed, and communicating with your doctor, you can reduce your risk of eye problems and protect your vision. At Holtebeck Eye Center, we are committed to providing exceptional eye care for all of our patients. Schedule an exam with Dr. Holtebeck to learn more about diabetic eye care services.