What Can You Do to Protect Your Eyes From Diabetic Retinopathy?

Living with diabetes means managing your health on several fronts, and your eyes are no exception. Diabetic retinopathy is one of the most serious complications of diabetes, and without proper care, it can threaten your vision. Fortunately, with early detection and proactive management, you can take important steps to protect your eyes.
 

What Is Diabetic Retinopathy?

Diabetic retinopathy is a condition that occurs when high blood sugar levels damage the tiny blood vessels in the retina. Over time, these damaged blood vessels can leak, swell, or close off entirely, leading to vision problems and, in severe cases, blindness.
 

Early stages of diabetic retinopathy may not cause any noticeable symptoms. However, as the condition progresses, you may experience blurred vision, floaters, or even vision loss. This makes regular eye exams especially important for people with diabetes.
 

The Importance of Early Detection

Early detection is crucial in preventing vision loss from diabetic retinopathy. Because symptoms often don’t appear until the condition has advanced, annual diabetic eye exams are your best defense. Detecting changes in your retina early allows for timely intervention, which can slow or even halt the progression of the disease.
 

What Can You Do to Protect Your Eyes?

The most effective way to safeguard your sight is to schedule annual diabetic eye exams - even if you aren’t experiencing any changes in vision. During these exams, your eye doctor will thoroughly check your retina for any signs of diabetic retinopathy or other diabetes-related eye conditions.
 

Keeping your blood sugar within your target range is essential, but don’t overlook blood pressure and cholesterol. Uncontrolled blood pressure and high cholesterol can accelerate damage to the blood vessels in your eyes.

Eat a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and avoid smoking. These healthy habits support your overall health and can help minimize your risk of developing complications from diabetes.
 

How Our Advanced Technology Can Make a Difference

At Quick Vision, we’re committed to providing the highest level of care for our patients with diabetes. We utilize the RETeval® device from LKC Technologies, an innovative, non-invasive tool designed specifically for detecting early signs of diabetic retinopathy. The RETeval® device allows us to assess the function of your retina quickly and comfortably - often without the need for dilating drops. This advanced screening technology enables us to catch subtle changes in your eye health earlier, so we can recommend timely interventions and help preserve your vision for years to come.
 

Take Control of Your Eye Health Today

Diabetic retinopathy is a serious threat to your vision, but with the right steps, you can protect your eyesight and maintain your quality of life. Prioritize regular diabetic eye exams, manage your overall health, and trust in the latest technology to support your care.
 

Schedule your comprehensive diabetic eye exam with Quick Vision and let us help you see a clearer, healthier future. Visit our office in Vincennes, Indiana, or call (812) 255-0559 to book an appointment today.