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Living with diabetes means staying on top of your health in more ways than one. While blood sugar levels often take center stage, your eye health deserves attention, too. Diabetes-related eye disease can sneak up quietly, but with the right habits and support, you can protect your vision for years to come.
What Is Diabetes-Related Eye Disease?
Diabetes-related eye disease refers to a group of conditions caused by high blood sugar damaging the blood vessels in the retina and other eye structures. The most common is diabetic retinopathy, but others include diabetic macular edema, glaucoma and cataracts. These conditions can lead to vision loss if not detected and treated early.
Recognizing the Symptoms
Symptoms often develop slowly and may not be noticeable at first. Watch for:
- Blurry or fluctuating vision
- Dark spots or floaters
- Difficulty seeing at night
- Colors appearing faded or washed out
If you experience any of these, it’s time to schedule an eye exam. Early detection is key to preserving your sight.
5 Habits to Protect Your Vision
1. Keep Blood Sugar in Check
Stable blood sugar levels reduce the risk of damage to the tiny vessels in your eyes. Work with your healthcare provider to monitor and manage your glucose levels daily.
2. Schedule Regular Eye Exams
Annual comprehensive eye exams are essential, even if your vision seems fine. Your eye doctor can spot early signs of disease, often before symptoms appear.
3. Eat for Eye Health
A diet rich in leafy greens, omega-3s and colorful fruits supports both your overall health and your eyes. Antioxidants like vitamin C and E help fight oxidative stress linked to diabetic eye damage.
4. Stay Active
Exercise helps regulate blood sugar and improves circulation, which benefits your eyes. Even a brisk walk a few times a week can make a difference.
5. Quit Smoking
Smoking increases the risk of diabetic complications, including eye disease. Quitting improves blood flow and reduces inflammation, giving your eyes a better chance at staying healthy.
How Your Eye Doctor Can Help
Your eye doctor is your partner in protecting your vision. At Lake Lazer Eye Center, we use advanced imaging to detect even the earliest signs of diabetic eye disease. If treatment is needed, options like laser therapy, medications or surgery can help preserve your sight. And if you’re considering a Detroit LASIK procedure, we’ll assess whether your diabetes is well-managed enough to make you a candidate for one of our laser vision correction procedures – SoftTouch LASIK or the SMILE Pro procedure.
Managing diabetes is a lifelong journey, but your vision doesn’t have to suffer along the way. With smart habits and expert care, you can stay ahead of eye disease and keep seeing the moments that matter. At Lake Lazer Eye Center, we’re here to help you protect your eyes and live life in full focus.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is diabetic retinopathy?
Diabetic retinopathy is a condition in which high blood sugar damages the blood vessels in the retina. Lake Lazer Eye Center can provide you with early detection and recommendations for treatment.
Can diabetes affect LASIK eligibility?
Yes, uncontrolled diabetes can impact healing and increase risks. Lake Lazer Eye Center evaluates each patient carefully to determine if LASIK is a safe option.
How often should I get an eye exam with diabetes?
People with diabetes should have a comprehensive eye exam at least once a year. Your ophthalmologist may recommend more frequent examinations if your condition is poorly controlled or your eyes are at risk.
Are there treatments for diabetic eye disease?
Yes, treatments for eye disease may include laser therapy, injections and surgery depending on the condition. Lake Lazer Eye Center offers personalized care plans using the latest technology.
Can diabetic eye disease be reversed?
Damage from diabetic eye disease can sometimes be slowed or stabilized but not always reversed. Early detection at Lake Lazer Eye Center is key to preserving vision.
What foods help protect diabetic eyes?
Foods rich in antioxidants like leafy greens, berries and fish support eye health. Our team can give you general guidelines on nutrition that complements your eye care.
Is blurry vision always a sign of diabetic eye disease?
Not always, but it can be. Blurry vision should be evaluated by an eye doctor. Lake Lazer Eye Center can determine the cause and recommend treatment.
Does Lake Lazer Eye Center accept insurance for diabetic eye exams?
Yes, we work with most major insurance providers. Contact our office to confirm coverage and schedule your exam.
With convenient locations in Clinton Township, Southfield and Milford, Lake Lazer Eye Center offers Metro Detroit-area patients comprehensive glaucoma care as well as up-front pricing and convenient and affordable payment plans for SoftTouch LASIK and the SMILE Pro procedure. Dr. Khambati has helped thousands of people from all over the world escape the restrictions of glasses and contacts through laser vision correction procedures. Detroit-area patients who are not candidates for vision correction can get our assistance with a contact lens evaluation or a selection of designer and specialty eyewear.
