What Is Diabetic Retinopathy and Why Is Diabetic Eye Care Important?
Living with diabetes is not always easy, but when you are armed with good knowledge, you can get proactive about your health and manage the disease. Doing so improves health outcomes across the board, and in most cases, you can live a normal life.
Of course, that requires access to good information in the first place, and that is why you are here today. There are plenty of complications that come with diabetes, and one that many patients do not know much about relates to your eyes.
Diabetic retinopathy is a condition you need to understand. So, take a minute to learn about the condition and why diabetic eye care is so important.
Diabetic Retinopathy Explained
Diabetic retinopathy is an eye condition specific to people who have diabetes. Diabetes affects blood vessels in your body, including the vessels in your retina. The retina is the part of your eye that detects light and is sensitive to irregular blood flow.
When blood vessels behave abnormally, it impacts the retina and can damage your eye. Retinopathy can reduce your visual acuity and even lead to blindness.
The Importance of Diabetic Eyecare
Diabetes complicates your health. It’s not a fun conversation, but it is essential that you understand the implications of the condition. Since diabetes puts your eyes at an increased risk of degeneration (including diabetic retinopathy), getting an eye exam at least once a year is critical.
Ophthalmologists can often detect issues even before symptoms start. This gives you a jump on the issue, and getting ahead of degenerative conditions like retinopathy can make all of the difference in the world.
In addition to regular checkups, follow instructions from your doctor. Do your best to manage your blood sugar consistently, as this dramatically reduces blood vessel issues related to diabetes.
Stay on top of your blood pressure and blood lipids (cholesterol) for an even better health outlook.
Schedule to See Your Ophthalmologist Today
The Central Valley Eye Medical Group consists of a team of highly qualified, board-certified ophthalmologists dedicated to improving their patients’ lives through exceptional eye care. With each physician being fellowship trained, our practice can offer the latest and most advanced treatments in the field, all delivered with personalized attention from our doctors and staff.
Call us at 209-952-3700 to schedule an appointment and experience firsthand how we can help you see life more clearly. With offices in Stockton, Modesto, and Manteca, you have the flexibility to choose the location that suits your needs the most.
Posted in: Diabetic Eye Care
