If you are one of the millions of people who have diabetes, you might not be aware that it can affect your eyes. Most people think of blood sugar concerns and the potential for organ damage that comes with uncontrolled glucose levels. However, diabetic retinopathy is also a serious risk. If you are dealing with diabetes and live in or around Albuquerque, contact Albuquerque Vision Care and Advanced Eyewear to schedule a consultation with one of our eye doctors.
What is Diabetic Retinopathy?
Diabetic retinopathy is a complication of diabetes. It occurs when the small blood vessels in the eye become damaged and stop growing properly. These blood vessels are located in the retina, which is the light-sensitive tissue that is found in the back of your eyes.
Over time, this condition can worsen and start to cause vision changes. If left untreated, it can eventually cause blindness. While diabetic retinopathy cannot always be avoided, treating the underlying cause is the best way to reduce issues.
Understanding the Risks and Symptoms
The biggest risk for developing diabetic retinopathy is having either Type I or Type II diabetes for a long period. The better control you have over your diabetes, the less likely you will be to develop this serious eye condition. Early stages do not always present symptoms. When symptoms develop, they are usually issues such as:
- Blurry or fluctuating vision
- Floaters (spots or strings in your vision)
- Empty or dark areas of vision
- Loss of vision or blindness
People who are concerned about diabetic retinopathy should focus on seeing their optometrist for regular checkups, keeping their diabetes under control, and their A1C under 7. Be sure to reach out right away if you notice changes in your vision. Properly controlled blood pressure and cholesterol are also important in regard to diabetic retinopathy.
Contact Our Optometrists in Albuquerque, NM
Contact Albuquerque Vision Care and Advanced Eyewear if you need help managing or testing for diabetic retinopathy. Whether you already have the condition or you are trying to avoid it and want to make sure your eyes are healthy, we can help. Call our team today at (505) 332-2020 or reach us through our website by using our online contact form.
