Diabetes is a disease with many different side effects. Everyone's body has a different response to diabetes, and it can be difficult to predict exactly how your body will respond to the disease or treatment. However, even when diabetes is treated effectively, some patients don't receive proper diagnoses and treatments until they have already experienced some degree of blindness. Fortunately, there are vision services available for those who've experienced this problem. Let's look into some of the most essential recommendations for eye health below.

1. Get Specialized Eye Exams

While there are basic eye exams available for those worried about their vision, additional steps should be taken to assist patients with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes. In fact, some diabetics experience total blindness over time, especially if the disease is not properly addressed. A diabetes diagnosis does not necessarily mean that you'll experience blindness. According to the Centers for Disease Control, blindness caused by diabetes is preventable in 90% of all cases. This side effect of diabetes is why it's so important for patients to have regular appointments with their optometrists.

Usually, an eye exam will involve the dilation of the pupils. It's recommended that diabetic patients have a digital retinal exam, as well. The doctor will use retinal imaging to take a digital photo of the back of your eye. They'll get a clear picture of the retina, the optical disk, and blood vessels, which will help them determine the extent of the issues with your vision. Generally, digital retinal exams are recommended among standard vision services today.

2. Control Your Blood Sugar

Often, those providing vision services for diabetes patients help guide them to bettering their health in general, which will aid them in preventing further degeneration. Patients should control their blood sugar levels (which can help prevent retinopathy), manage their high blood pressure, and quit smoking if necessary. Regular exercise and a healthy diet will help diabetic patients maintain their eyesight over time. Always consult your doctor before making any drastic changes to your lifestyle.

3. Wear Sunglasses

If you're already experiencing vision issues or have been diagnosed with diabetes, begin wearing sunglasses. When your eyes are exposed to direct sunlight, they're at greater risk for cataracts and macular degeneration. If you're also dealing with diabetes, this risk will become even greater. Consider wearing sunglasses whenever you step into the sunlight.

Maintaining visual health after you've been diagnosed with diabetes can be intimidating, but it's easy with the right doctor. Call us at the Vision and Learning Center. We'll be happy to talk to you about vision maintenance today!