Managing Diabetes? Don’t Forget Your Eyes
Diabetes is a common health condition in the United States, with millions of people living with the disease. But did you know that diabetes can have an impact on your eyes? If left unchecked, it can lead to serious eye complications, even blindness. At Vista Eye Care, we’re committed to helping patients with diabetes maintain their vision and eye health through comprehensive eye care.
What Is Diabetes?
Diabetes is a chronic health condition that affects how your body turns food into energy. Normally, your body breaks down food into sugar (glucose) and releases it into your bloodstream. When your blood sugar levels rise, your pancreas releases insulin, a hormone that helps the glucose enter your cells and use it as energy. In people with diabetes, the body either doesn’t produce enough insulin or can’t effectively use the insulin it makes. There are two types of diabetes:
Type 1 Diabetes—An autoimmune condition where the body’s immune system attacks and destroys the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. People with Type 1 diabetes need to take insulin every day to manage their blood sugar levels.
Type 2 Diabetes—The more common form, where the body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn’t produce enough insulin. Type 2 diabetes is often linked to lifestyle factors such as obesity, poor diet, and lack of exercise, but can also be genetic.
Thornton, CO 80602
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- Tuesday: 7:00 AM - 4:30 PM
- Wednesday: 7:00 AM - 5:30 PM
- Thursday: 7:00 AM - 5:30 PM
- Friday: 7:00 AM - 5:30 PM
- Saturday: 7:00 AM - 4:00 PM
- Sunday: Closed
Diabetes And Your Eye Health
Diabetes can have serious implications for your eyes, particularly if your blood sugar levels are not well controlled. High blood sugar can damage the tiny blood vessels in your eyes. Over time, this damage can become severe, resulting in vision loss or blindness if left untreated. It’s essential to monitor your eye health regularly if you have diabetes to detect any issues early.
Eye Conditions Associated with Diabetes
Several eye conditions are related to diabetes:
- Diabetic Retinopathy: The most common eye condition, diabetic retinopathy, occurs when high blood sugar levels damage the blood vessels in the retina. This can cause them to swell, leak, or even close off completely, leading to vision problems.
- Diabetic Macular Edema (DME): DME is a complication of diabetic retinopathy where fluid builds up in the macula, the part of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision.
- Cataracts: People with diabetes are more likely to develop cataracts at a younger age.
- Glaucoma: Diabetes increases your risk of developing glaucoma, a condition that damages the optic nerve, often due to increased pressure in the eye.
The Importance of Diabetic Eye Exams
A diabetic eye exam is crucial for anyone living with diabetes. These exams are more detailed than standard eye exams and focus on detecting early signs of eye disease. During a diabetic eye exam at Vista Eye Care, we will:
Working Together for Better Eye Health
We work closely with your primary care physician or endocrinologist to manage your overall health. After your diabetic eye exam, our eye doctors will thoroughly evaluate your ocular health and provide a detailed report to your primary care physician. This communication is crucial for maintaining a holistic approach to diabetes management, ensuring all aspects of your health are properly cared for.
Diabetic Eye Exams in Thornton, CO
If you’re living with diabetes, don’t wait to take action. Schedule regular eye exams at Vista Eye Care to ensure your vision remains clear and healthy. Early detection and management are key to preventing serious complications and maintaining your quality of life. Contact us to book an appointment and take the next step in protecting your vision.