Posted by: Aker Kasten Eye Center in Diabetic Retinopathy on May 30, 2019
Diabetes isn’t an easy issue to have, and it can be difficult to manage when you’re just learning. The longer you have it and experience life with diabetes, the better you’ll get at understanding how to manage your symptoms. You will learn the best foods to eat, the foods to avoid, and the overall best ways to maintain your health.
Knowing how your diabetes affects your overall health will be key to avoiding complications and catching issues before they become serious. Granted, it may take a while to understand how diabetes affects you. For instance, did you know that diabetes can impact your eye health? Keep reading to learn how to keep your eyes healthy when you have diabetes.
Diabetic Macular Edema
This is one of the most important things to understand and watch out for when you have diabetes. When you have diabetic macular edema, the retinal vascular structures do not operate as they should, and as a result, they begin to leak. The macula (the center part of the retina) then begins to thicken, causing serious issues to your eye health. Your eye doctor can help find diabetic macular edema, which is why it’s especially crucial to see your eye doctor on a regular basis when you have diabetes.
Cataracts
Your chances of developing cataracts rise when you’re diabetic. Unfortunately, vision-impacting cataracts are more common in patients with diabetes than those who don’t suffer from diabetes. If you’re having a harder time seeing, it’s important to call us as soon as you realize it.
Make Regular Visits
Even if you have perfect vision right now, seeing your eye doctor every year on a regular schedule is important. It’s even more important when you suffer from diabetes. One appointment every year can help you maintain the health of your eyes, and catch serious issues before they become advanced.
Regardless of your health concerns, everyone should see an eye doctor once a year to make sure their eyes are in optimal health. Call us at (561) 338-7722 to schedule a consultation today to learn more about what you may need to watch out for.