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People with diabetes are at a higher risk of developing eye diseases. If you have this health condition or are pre-diabetic, you should see your eye doctor regularly to check for signs of diabetic eye disease. Early detection is important in preventing related vision loss.

3 Warning Signs of Diabetic Eye Disease

1. Cataracts

Cataracts cloud the lens of your eye, impairing your ability to see clearly. Uncontrolled blood sugar can raise the glucose level in the aqueous humor of the eye—the liquid that fills the front and provides nutrients to your lens. The glucose gets converted to sorbitol, which can collect in the lens, eventually leading to cataracts. The only solution is lens replacement surgery.  

2. Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a buildup of pressure in the eye, which can damage blood vessels and nerves and cause vision changes. People with diabetes are twice as likely to develop glaucoma, especially among patients whose diabetes is not well managed. Laser surgery and drainage implants are two ways to treat glaucoma, but early detection by your eye doctor is key.

3. Blurry Vision

eye doctorSometimes, blurry vision means you need new eyeglasses. For people with diabetes, though, it could be an early warning sign of a more serious problem. High blood sugar causes the lens of the eye to swell, which can change your vision. Check your blood sugar to make sure it’s in the range recommended by your doctor, and take corrective action to lower it. Your vision may be blurry for as long as three months.

If you have diabetes, the two most important things you can do for your eye health are see your eye doctor regularly and maintain a healthy blood sugar level. You should also know the warning signs of diabetic eye disease to avoid long-term or permanent vision loss.

 

Dr. L. R. Gabe has been serving the people of Show Low, AZ, for more than 40 years. That’s why he is the area’s most trusted vision care provider. Whether you need an eye exam or specialty testing, you’ll receive unmatched customer service in a warm, caring atmosphere. Call (928) 537-5565, or send the eye doctor a message online to request your appointment.

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