How to Take Care of your Eyes When you Have Diabetes?
If you’re living with diabetes, it’s important to take care of your eyes. Diabetes can cause serious eye problems, including glaucoma, blindness and cataracts. But by following some simple steps, you can protect your vision and keep your eyes healthy.
Here are the basics you need to know about caring for your eyes when you have diabetes.
Get a comprehensive dilated eye exam at least once a year. Diabetes can damage the blood vessels in your retina, the sensitive tissue at the back of your eye. A dilated eye exam is the best way to detect this type of damage early, when it’s most treatable.
Know your family history. If anyone in your family has diabetes-related eye problems, you’re at increased risk for them too. Be sure to tell your doctor about any family history of vision problems so he or she can keep a close watch on your eyes.
Control your blood sugar levels. Keeping your blood sugar under control is one of the most important things you can do to protect your vision. Work with your doctor to keep your blood sugar levels as close to normal as possible.
Quit smoking. Smoking doubles your risk for developing diabetic retinopathy, a leading cause of blindness. If you smoke, now is the time to quit. Talk to your doctor about programs and products that can help you kick the habit for good.
Eat a healthy diet. Eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains can help control your blood sugar and improve your overall health. This type of healthy eating can also help prevent or delay the onset of diabetes-related eye problems.
Take care of your overall health. In addition to managing your diabetes, be sure to take care of your other health conditions. High blood pressure and high cholesterol can both contribute to vision problems, so it’s important to keep these under control.
Keep your eyes clean. If you wear contact lenses, be sure to clean them regularly and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for care. Diabetics are at increased risk for developing serious eye infections, so it’s important to take extra care of your lenses.
Protect your eyes from the sun. Wear sunglasses that block out 100 percent of both UVA and UVB rays whenever you’re outdoors. Consider wearing a wide-brimmed hat as well to further protect your eyes from the sun’s harmful rays.
Be aware of other vision problems. Diabetes can also cause other vision problems, such as dry eyes, cataracts and glaucoma. If you experience any changes in your vision, be sure to see your doctor right away.
By following these simple steps, you can help protect your vision and keep your eyes healthy. Diabetes is a serious condition, but with proper care, you can manage it and enjoy a healthy life
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