November has been declared as Diabetic Eye Disease Month by Prevent Blindness. To educate the public on the effects of diabetes on vision, risk factors and treatment options. Diabetic Eye Disease is a group of eye problems that people with diabetes may face as a complication of the disease. These conditions include:
- Diabetic Retinopathy-is caused by damage to blood vessels in the tissue at the back of the eye (retina). Treatment can help, but this condition can’t be cured.
- Diabetic Macular Edema- is an accumulation of fluid in the macula, (the part of the retina that controls the most detailed vision), due to leaking blood vessels.
- Cataracts- A condition in which the lens of the eye becomes opaque or cloudy, resulting in blurry vision.
- Glaucoma- This condition is when the nerve connecting the eye to the brain is damaged, usually due to high eye pressure.
If you have diabetes you can protect your vision by taking charge of your health to keep your vision sharp:
- Visit your Doctor
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle
- Manage your medications
- Know the ABCs of Diabetes
- If you smoke – STOP
How to observe Diabetic Eye Disease month:
- Get tested for diabetes
- Post an eye exam reminder
- Offer to take someone to their eye exam
#eyegotcha #DiabeticEyeDiseaseMonth
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