Diabetes doesn't just change how you live day-to-day; it can also change how you see the world—literally. At , we want you to know how this common condition can impact your eyes. For folks managing diabetes, understanding these effects is key to keeping your vision clear and healthy.
How Diabetes Affects Your Vision
When you have diabetes, high sugar levels in your blood can harm the tiny blood vessels in your eyes. This damage can lead to a condition called diabetic retinopathy, which is the most common eye problem for people with diabetes. But that's not all. Diabetes can also cause problems like cataracts and glaucoma, which can affect how well you see.
Signs You Should Not Ignore
Your eyes might send you signals if diabetes begins to affect them. Watch out for:
- Blurry or wavy vision.
- Often seeing dark spots or "floaters."
- Trouble seeing at night.
- Colors look dull or washed out.
It's tricky because, at first, these eye problems don't always come with signs. That's why getting your eyes checked regularly is so important.
Are Your Eyes At Risk?
Anyone with diabetes can face these eye issues. But your risk goes up if you've had diabetes for a long time or if your blood sugar, blood pressure, or cholesterol isn't well-managed. Smoking can also make things worse.
The Power of Eye Exams
Getting your eyes checked every year is a big deal when you have diabetes. These exams help catch problems early, sometimes before they start causing vision issues. Our team at Alpine Vision uses special tools to look at your eyes and make sure they're healthy. If we spot anything, we'll help you with the next steps to keep your eyes as healthy as possible.
Managing Diabetic Retinopathy
If diabetic retinopathy is spotted early, treatment might not be needed right away. However, it is crucial to keep an eye on it. In more advanced cases, treatments like laser surgery or medication injections can help.
The best way to fight back is to manage your diabetes well and make sure to visit us for your regular eye exams.
Alpine Vision is Ready to Support You
Living with diabetes means you've got a lot on your plate, but don't let that push eye care to the back burner. Regular check-ups can catch problems early, making a world of difference in your vision.
We're ready to support you at Alpine Vision. We're not just eye care experts; we're people who care about your health and well-being. Schedule your eye exam with us today. Together, we can work towards keeping your vision sharp and clear so you can keep enjoying the beauty of the world around you in Colorado Springs.