How To Spot Early Signs of Diabetic Eye Diseases
- Posted on: Apr 15 2024
Diabetes-related vision problems are more common than you may think. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that 20% of adults over 45 with diagnosed diabetes experience issues with vision. High blood sugar can lead to your eyes developing conditions such as blurry vision, glaucoma, cataracts, and diabetic retinopathy–the most common eye condition that develops in those with diabetes. If left untreated, diabetic eye diseases can cause permanent damage to your vision, making it vital to spot the early signs.
Symptoms of Diabetic Eye Disease
Many times, diabetic eye disease has no warning signs in its early stages. In fact, you may not experience any pain or vision changes–especially in the case of diabetic retinopathy–until their later stages. Some symptoms to be aware of include:
- Blurry, patchy, or wavy vision
- Floaters
- Frequently changing vision, sometimes day-to-day
- Dark areas of vision
- Gradually worsening vision
- Poor color vision
- Flashes of light
- Eye pain and redness
- Sudden vision loss
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, contact The Eye Clinic, P.C. right way.
Diabetic Retinopathy
Chronic high blood sugar can lead to diabetic retinopathy, which causes progressive damage to the retina. As many as 40% to 45% of patients with diabetes have symptoms of diabetic retinopathy but are so mild they go unnoticed.
How Can I Prevent Diabetic Eye Conditions?
The best way to prevent diabetic eye disease or keep it from worsening is to manage your blood sugar by monitoring it and keeping it within a healthy range. Other steps you can take to prevent diabetic eye conditions include:
- Managing your A1c, blood pressure, and cholesterol
- Getting a dilated eye exam at least once a year
- Asking your doctor about a glycosylated hemoglobin test
- Quitting smoking
Additionally, visiting your eye doctor for regular eye exams can allow any eye diseases to be diagnosed and treated immediately.
Quality Diabetic Eye Care in Portland, OR
Eye health is important regardless of whether you have diabetes or not. But when you do have diabetes, it becomes that much more vital.
If you notice signs of diabetic eye disease, schedule a comprehensive eye screening with one of our highly trained eye doctors at The Eye Clinic, P.C. Contact our office today at 503-297-4718 or complete a contact form online.
Posted in: Diabetic Eye Care
