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If you have diabetes, then you know how important it is to monitor your health. In addition to testing your blood sugar and visiting a physician, it’s essential to see an eye doctor on a regular basis. The condition increases your risk of developing eye health problems like diabetic retinopathy and vision loss. Checking in with an optometrist regularly makes it easier to identify early warning signs of a problem and receive treatment before the issue worsens.

How Does Diabetes Impact Eyesight?

Diabetes affects vision in two ways. If you have high blood sugar, then you might experience swelling that changes the shape of your eye lens, high blood sugar is also associated with an impaired ability to focus. People who are prone to low blood sugar are more likely to experience blurry vision or double vision, though this is related to the brain’s ability to interpret what the eyes see rather than a physical problem with the eye itself.

eye doctor High Point NCThe condition can also lead to an eye health problem called diabetic retinopathy. Its symptoms include dark spots in your field of vision, diminished color sense, and vision loss. 

How Can I Prevent Diabetes-Related Vision Issues?

Scheduling regular appointments with an optometrist is the key to identifying changes in your eyesight and establishing an underlying cause. During your exam, the eye doctor might dilate your eyes to get a closer look at your retina. Alternately, they also use a technique called digital retinal photography, which allows them to look at your retina closely without dilation. Both of these methods are designed to detect changes in the eye that could be related to diabetes.

Early detection is an essential component of proper treatment. In addition to controlling your blood sugar levels through diet, exercise, and medication, you should have your vision checked every year. Diabetes can lead to a number of secondary conditions, so you want to do everything in your power to prevent them.

 

The team at Progressive Vision Group PA in High Point, NC, offers comprehensive vision care and a wide selection of vision products for people managing diabetes. Their eye doctors provide the treatments and preventative care steps you need to protect your eyesight. Visit them online to learn more about their products and services, and call (336) 841-2028 to schedule an appointment.

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