Diabetes Diagnosis and Yours Eyes: What to do Next | Diabetic Eye Disease Awareness Month

November is Diabetic Eye Disease Awareness Month. For over a million people this year, diabetic awareness will take on a new significance in their lives. According to the American Diabetes Association, in the United States, about 1.4 million people will receive a diabetes diagnosis this year. 
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It can be a shock to hear that you have diabetes. Diabetes can increase your risk of a heart attack, stroke, kidney disease, and vision loss. 

High blood sugar levels over time can damage the retinal blood vessels. As time goes on, this damage can lead to diabetic retinopathy. Having diabetes also increases your risk of developing glaucoma and cataracts, which can also threaten vision.  

After the surprise of a diagnosis wears off, it is time to learn more and take action to decrease your risk of vision problems. The sooner you take charge, the better your chances of managing the disease and avoiding eye diseases.
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Know the type of diabetes you have

There are different types of diabetes. Learning as much as possible about the type you have can help you understand your treatment plan. 

The classifications of diabetes include: 

• Type 1: People with type 1 diabetes do not produce insulin. This form of diabetes tends to occur by young adulthood or earlier.  
• Type 2: People who have type 2 diabetes do not make enough insulin, or their body does not use it well. Type 2 diabetes is associated with being overweight. This type of diabetes can happen at any age, but tends to occur in adulthood.
• Gestational: This type of diabetes develops during pregnancy in women who do not already have diabetes. 

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Steps to take after a diabetes diagnosis to protect your vision 

If you receive a diagnosis of diabetes, you may wonder: What now? Fortunately, there are many things you can do to help control the disease and prevent vision problems. Consider the following steps: 

Work with your team to develop a diabetes management plan 

Your treatment team may include your primary care doctor, endocrinologist, nutritionist, and eye doctor. You are also part of the team. Work closely with your healthcare providers to develop a treatment plan and lifestyle changes to manage diabetes, such as:

• Keeping blood sugar levels in a healthy range
• Taking medication as prescribed
• Eating a healthy diet with fresh vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats

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See an eye doctor for an eye exam

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, detecting and treating diabetic retinopathy early may prevent or slow blindness in about 90 percent of people with diabetes, but over half of individuals with diabetes do not get their eyes examined in time for effective treatment. 

Prioritize weight management as needed

If you have type 2 diabetes and are overweight, getting to a healthy weight is vital to manage your condition. Work with your doctor to develop a safe and effective weight loss plan. 

Become diligent about reducing other eye disease risks

Having diabetes is a risk factor for eye diseases, but other things also increase your chances of developing certain eye conditions. Take steps to reduce your other eye disease risk factors. Consider the following: 

• Treat high blood pressure
• Quit smoking 
• Wear sunglasses when outside during the day
• Wear appropriate protective eyewear as needed for work or sports 

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Exercise

Getting regular exercise helps manage diabetes. Exercise can help you lose weight if needed. It also helps improve cardiovascular health. Some studies also show getting regular exercise may reduce your risk of certain eye diseases. 

We hope the above information helps you to protect your eyes if you are newly diagnosed with diabetes. If you have any questions or would like to ask about whether an appointment with one of our eye doctors is appropriate at this time, please phone our office at 508-746-8600.