Taking care of eye health is vital for people with diabetes. Experts believe that an annual eye exam could even help save sight in those with diabetes.
It is imperative to detect any changes in eye health early so that steps can be taken to help prevent any vision loss. Diabetes is a condition that has been previously shown to alter the health of the blood vessels in the retina. However, these changes do not cause symptoms in the early stages, so it is not easily detected.
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Diabetes can cause the blood vessels in the retina to become leaky, which can trigger swelling of the macula, the part of the retina at the back of the eye that is responsible for central vision. This can lead to a type of retinal detachment, which can lead to progressive visual loss and blindness if left untreated.
Studies show that more than half of people with diabetes will develop diabetic retinopathy, one of the leading causes of blindness in the United States. Even with this staggering number, less than half of diabetes patients get annual vision checks.
Pregnant women who have gestational diabetes are also at risk for diabetic retinopathy. Doctors suggest these patients should be seen multiple times throughout their pregnancy to help reduce the risk of serious eye health problems.
Prevent Vision Loss
All diabetes patients should get a dilated eye exam and manage their diabetes to help lower their risk for vision loss and other complications such as stroke and heart attack.
Blood sugar levels should be tackled to ensure they are kept under control.
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Blood pressure should also be monitored regularly, and cholesterol levels should be kept below 200 mg/dL. With a few easy lifestyle changes, those living with diabetes can help to ensure better overall health.
20/20 vision is a great way to help support a strong and healthy vision as you age. This unique formula includes lutein and zeaxanthin, natural pigments called carotenoids that have been shown to protect the eye from oxidative damage.
Through regular eye exams and healthy lifestyle choices, you can help to increase eye health.
Sarah began her interest in nutritional healing at an early age. After going through health problems and becoming frustrated with the conventional ways doctors wanted to treat her illness (which were not working), she took it upon herself to find alternative treatments. This led her to revolutionize her own diet to help her get healthier and tackle her health problems. She began treating her illness by living a more balanced lifestyle through healthy food choices, exercise and other alternative medicine such as meditation. This total positive lifestyle change led her to earn a diploma in Nutritional Therapy from Health Sciences Academy in London, England. Today, Sarah enjoys helping others by teaching healthy lifestyle changes through her personal consultations and with her regular contributions to the Doctors Health Press. Also, passionate about following her dreams in life, Sarah moved to France and lived in Paris for over 5 years where she earned a certification in beadwork and embroidery from Lesage (an atelier owned by Chanel). She then went on to be a familiar face sitting front row and reporting from Paris Fashion Week. Sarah continues to practice some of the cultural ways of life she learned while in Europe. They enjoy their food, and take the time to relax and enjoy many of life’s little moments. These are life lessons she is glad to have brought back home with her.
