DIABETICS – Preventing Eye Disease
Kick the smoking habit!
Diabetics have it hard enough without having to live with permanent vision loss.
The NUMBER 1 way for diabetics to prevent vision loss is to have an dilated eye exam EVERY YEAR. During the eye exam, your eye doctor will be looking at your retina for early signs of diabetic retinopathy. Diabetic retinopathy is a complication from diabetes. Leaking blood vessels, retinal swelling and deposits on the retina are all early signs of eye problems related to diabetes. Remember early detection is the key to keeping your eye healthy for a lifetime.
OTHER FACTORS THAT DIABETICS CAN CONTROL:
- Know your ABCs…A1C (blood glucose), BP (blood pressure) and cholesterol
2) Always take your medication as prescribed by your doctor. Don’t try to out-think your doctors.
3) Keep your blood sugar levels under tight control by testing yourself several times a day.
2) Get your blood pressure under control. High blood pressure can contribute to damaging blood vessels.
3) QUIT SMOKING. This should probably #1 on the list of things to do to keep your eyes healthy, whether you are a diabetic or not.
4) Maintain a healthy diet full of colorful vegetables.
5) Exercise regularly.
6) Maintain a healthy weight.
7) Follow-up with PCP regularly