Diabetes and Your Eyes: Commit to Routine Vision Care

Diabetes is a serious disease that can affect many parts of the body-the heart, kidneys, blood circulation, and eyes. In fact, according to the National Eye Institute, diabetic eye disease increased in prevalence by 89 percent between 2000 and 2010, and is a leading cause of blindness among American adults. Despite this, people with diabetes often overlook vision care as they work to manage the many other health problems the disease can cause.

According to a survey by the American Optometric Association, 55 percent of people are unaware that diabetic eye disease often has no visual signs or symptoms. Additionally, 44 percent of Americans don’t know that a person with diabetes should have a comprehensive eye exam once a year, including a retina (dilated) eye exam

These exams are the only way to diagnose serious eye diseases associated with diabetes in their early stage. Regular retina eye exams are critical for early detection and treatment of these progressive eye diseases that often begin without warning.

The longer a person has diabetes, the higher his or her risk for eye disease. Over time, diabetes may cause damage to the blood vessels in the back of the eye, a condition known as diabetic retinopathy, which can lead to diabetic macular edema. DME occurs when the damaged blood vessels leak fluid and cause swelling. 

Although symptoms are not always present, this swelling can cause blurred vision, double vision, and patches in vision, which may appear as small black dots or lines “floating” across the front of the eye.

Approximately 26 million Americans have diabetes and may be at risk for DME. More than 560,000 Americans currently already have it, yet approximately 55 percent of them are unaware that they have the disease. African Americans and Hispanics over the age of 40 are at higher risk for DME than other ethnic groups. 

Prevent Vision Loss

  • Getting an annual retina eye exam is the best way to help detect changes in vision
  • Don’t wait-make an appointment with a retina specialist today
  • For more information about DME and tips for healthy vision, visit www.DiabetesEyeCheck.org.

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