*DIABETES AND BLINDNESS: What You Need To Know.* Did you know uncontrolled diabetes is one of the leading causes of blindness in adults? The culprit is DIABETIC RETINOPATHY. Let’s talk about it *HOW DOES DIABETES AFFECT YOUR EYES?* The eyes contain tiny, delicate blood vessels that supply the retina (the part of your eye that senses light and lets you see). Overtime, persistent high blood sugar levels damage these vessels causing them to: - Leak fluid - Swell - Bleed or - Close off completely. This reaction is known as diabetic retinopathy, the most common diabetes-related eye disease and a leading cause of blindness in working-age adults. *OTHER TYPES OF DIABETIC EYE DISEASE* - Diabetic macular edema: This is swelling in the macula- the central part responsible for sharp vision. It develops alongside retinopathy and can significantly damage the eye. - Cataracts: Cataracts cloud the lens of the eye, making vision blurry. - Glaucoma: Glaucoma is damage to the optic nerve, which can lead to permanent vision loss if not treated. *SYMPTOMS TO WATCH OUT FOR* It often develops asymptomatically in its early stages. However with time, you begin to notice: - Blurred or fluctuating vision - Dark spots or floaters - Vision loss (partial or total) - Difficulty seeing at night - Colors appearing faded or washed out. Early eye exams are very important. *WHO IS MOST AT RISK?* People with: - Poor blood sugar control - Long standing diabetes (5+ years) - High blood pressure or cholesterol - Smokers - Pregnant women with diabetes This list is not exhaustive, as even young adults and teenagers with poorly managed diabetes can develop retinopathy. *HOW DO YOU PROTECT YOUR VISION?* 1. Control your blood sugar Good blood sugar control is the number one way of preventing eye complications. You can do this by maintaining HbA1c levels below 7%. 2. Monitor your blood pressure and cholesterol Keep your blood pressure below 130/90 and your LDL cholesterol low. 3. Get a yearly eye exam A comprehensive exam can detect damage long before symptoms start to manifest. *DAILY ACTIONS YOU CAN TAKE* - Quit smoking entirely - Eat foods rich in antioxidants like green vegetables and fatty fish - Reduce salt intake, alcohol and saturated fats - Exercise regularly - Stay hydrated and get adequate sleep - Manage your stress - Identify symptoms on time, and present to a doctor immediately. *YOUR EYES MATTER!* Vision loss from diabetes sure does happen, but not overnight. It’s the result of silent, ongoing damage. With proper monitoring, lifestyle changes and medical care, you can protect your eye for life.