November is Diabetic Eye Disease Awareness Month: Protect Your Sight!

Diabetes can affect your eyes in serious ways, but the good news is that with early detection and treatment, vision loss can often be prevented. That's why November is such an important month for us here at Comly Eye Care. It's Diabetic Eye Disease Awareness Month, and we want to spread the word about the importance of regular eye exams for people with diabetes.

What is Diabetic Eye Disease?
Diabetes can damage the blood vessels in your eyes, leading to a variety of eye diseases, including:

Diabetic Retinopathy: This occurs when high blood sugar levels damage the blood vessels in the retina (the light-sensitive tissue at the back of your eye). Over time, this can cause the blood vessels to leak, swell, or close off completely. In severe cases, it can lead to the growth of abnormal new blood vessels that can bleed and scar the retina.
Diabetic Macular Edema (DME): This is a complication of diabetic retinopathy that affects the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision. DME causes fluid to build up in the macula, leading to blurry vision.
Cataracts: People with diabetes are more likely to develop cataracts at a younger age. Cataracts cloud the lens of the eye, making vision blurry or hazy.
Glaucoma: This condition damages the optic nerve and can lead to vision loss. People with diabetes are at a higher risk for developing glaucoma because new blood vessel growth can occur in the drainage system of the eye which can elevate the pressure in the eye.

The Importance of Early Detection

Often, diabetic eye disease has no noticeable symptoms in its early stages. That's why regular comprehensive eye exams are so crucial. During an exam, your optometrist can:

Dilate your pupils to get a clear view of the back of your eye.
Take photographs of your retina to detect any signs of damage.
Perform tests to check for cataracts and other eye conditions.

Protecting Your Vision

In addition to regular eye exams, here are some things you can do to protect your vision:

Manage your blood sugar levels: Keeping your blood sugar within the target range set by your doctor is the most important thing you can do to prevent diabetic eye disease.
Control your blood pressure and cholesterol: High blood pressure and cholesterol can also contribute to eye damage.
Maintain a healthy lifestyle: Eat a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and don't smoke.
Attend all your scheduled appointments: Don't skip your eye exams or appointments with your other healthcare providers.

Schedule Your Eye Exam Today!

If you have diabetes, don't wait to experience vision problems before scheduling an eye exam. Early detection and treatment are key to preserving your sight. Contact our office today at [Phone Number] to schedule your comprehensive eye exam.

https://www.comlyeyecare.ca/contact-us

We're here to help you protect your vision!