Diabetes and Glaucoma: What You Need to Know
If you have diabetes, taking care of your vision is crucial. Diabetes affects your blood sugar levels and increases your risk of developing eye conditions, including glaucoma.
The fellowship-trained, board-certified ophthalmologists at Central Valley Eye Medical Group understand this connection and the importance of seeking early care. They also offer various services to protect your vision and avoid long-term complications.
Learn more about the link between diabetes and glaucoma, as well as prevention and treatment options, below.
The Link Between Diabetes and Glaucoma
Glaucoma is an eye disorder that causes damage to the optic nerve. The optic nerve transports information from the retina to the brain.
Optic nerve damage often results from increased pressure in the eye. High blood sugar levels in diabetics may contribute to this pressure, making glaucoma more likely.
Without prompt treatment, glaucoma can lead to irreversible vision loss.
Recognizing the Signs and Symptoms
One of the greatest challenges associated with glaucoma is that it often does not present noticeable symptoms in the early stages. However, some people may experience signs such as:
- Gradual loss of peripheral vision
- Blurred or distorted vision
- Halos or rainbow-like rings around lights
These issues may not appear until significant damage has occurred. That’s why regular eye exams are critical. They allow people with diabetes to catch glaucoma and seek support sooner.
Prevention and Treatment Options
There’s no guaranteed way to prevent glaucoma. However, you can take steps to reduce your risk:
- Keep your blood sugar levels under control
- Manage blood pressure and cholesterol levels
- Quit or don’t start smoking
- Maintain a healthy diet and exercise routine
If your provider detects glaucoma, they may recommend several treatments to manage it. Common options include prescription eye drops, laser therapy, or surgery.
Schedule Your Eye Exam Today
Early detection is vital to preventing serious damage from glaucoma. If you have diabetes and have concerns about your eye health, make regular eye exams a priority.
At Central Valley Eye Medical Group, Inc., our team offers personalized care to help you protect and preserve your vision. Contact us at one of our three locations to book your next exam. Call (209) 952-3700 (Stockton), (209) 239-5303 (Manteca), or (209) 579-8800 (Modesto).
Posted in: Eye Care
