November is Diabetic Eye Disease Awareness Month, an important time to learn how diabetes can affect your eyesight and why managing your vision health is essential. People with diabetes face an increased risk of vision problems, including diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, and cataracts. However, with the right care and regular eye exams, it’s possible to maintain clear, healthy vision. The National Institute of Diabetes and Kidney Disease, states, “diabetes affects about 38 million Americans, including adults and youth. Diabetes can damage the eyes, kidneys, nerves, and heart, and it is linked to some types of cancer.”

According to the Mayo Clinic many people with diabetes will eventually experience some degree of retinal damage, known as diabetic retinopathy, regardless of how well they control their blood sugar. Studies show that 20 years after diagnosis, over 90% of individuals with type 1 diabetes and more than 60% of those with type 2 diabetes have diabetic retinopathy. This condition is often mild and may not initially impact vision.

Understanding How Diabetes Affects Your Eyesight

Diabetes can impact vision by affecting the blood vessels in your retina, leading to conditions such as:

• Diabetic Retinopathy: The most common cause of vision loss in people with diabetes is diabetic retinopathy which occurs when high blood sugar levels damage blood vessels in the retina. In its early stages, you may not notice symptoms, but over time it can lead to vision loss if left untreated.
• Diabetic Macular Edema (DME): DME occurs when fluid builds up in the macula, the part of the retina responsible for sharp vision, causing swelling and blurred vision.
• Cataracts and Glaucoma: Diabetes increases the risk of cataracts, where the eye lens becomes cloudy, and glaucoma, a condition where increased pressure within the eye damages the optic nerve.

The Importance of Annual Eye Exams

• Since many diabetic eye conditions develop without symptoms, regular comprehensive eye exams are crucial for early detection and treatment. During an eye exam, the doctors at Bissell Eye Care will dilate your pupils to check for signs of diabetic retinopathy, macular edema, and other eye issues. The earlier these conditions are caught, the better the chances of slowing their progression. If untreated, diabetic macular edema can cause partial vision loss or even blindness.
• Early Detection Saves Sight: Diabetic retinopathy is treatable if caught early, but severe cases are more challenging to manage. Annual exams ensure any issues are addressed promptly.
• Personalized Care: The Bissell Eye Care team of doctors can tailor care recommendations based on the specific challenges related to diabetes, including medication side effects or lifestyle changes that may impact eye health.

Tips for Maintaining Healthy Vision with Diabetes

While diabetes poses certain risks to eye health, you can take proactive steps to help maintain clear vision and reduce complications.

• Keep Blood Sugar Levels in Check: Consistently high blood sugar can damage blood vessels throughout your body, including your eyes. Following your prescribed diabetes care plan can help keep your levels stable, protecting your overall and vision health.
• Manage Blood Pressure and Cholesterol: High blood pressure and cholesterol can further increase your risk of diabetic eye disease. Working with your doctor to keep these levels under control is beneficial for your vision.
• Quit Smoking: Smoking exacerbates blood vessel damage, especially in those with diabetes, increasing the risk of diabetic retinopathy. Quitting smoking has significant benefits for both your eye health and overall wellness.
• Wear Sunglasses: Protect your eyes from harmful UV rays, which can worsen eye conditions like cataracts, by wearing UV-protective sunglasses when outdoors.

Final Note on Risk for Diabetes

If you have diabetes, knowing the risks to your eyesight and how to manage them can help you protect your vision. Diabetic eye disease is often preventable with early care and lifestyle adjustments. Don’t let silent symptoms sneak up on you. Monitor your blood sugar and adopt healthy habits to safeguard your vision for years to come. Remember, maintaining your eye health starts with staying proactive—so take control of your vision by maintaining regular eye exams. Take the time this month to book your annual eye exam with Bissell Eye Care by calling 724-443-6767 or 724-226-0444 today and make your vision health a priority.

About Bissell Eye Care: John D. Bissell, OD owns and operates Bissell Eye Care servicing Northern Pittsburgh and Alle-Kiski Valley regions. With two locations to treat patients, we offer evening appointments. Bissell Eye Care provides comprehensive eye examinations for the entire family beginning as early as 6 months, ocular disease detection and treatment, eyeglasses, sunglasses, activewear, contact lenses, and low vision examinations for those with significant vision loss. We accept most types of vision and health insurance plans. For more information, visit bisselleyecare.com or call our Bakerstown Office at 724-443-6767 or Natrona Heights office at 724-226-0444.