Here are four tips for protecting your vision:
Maintain Regular Eye Check-Ups
It’s crucial to have regular comprehensive dilated eye exams if you have diabetes, even if your vision is fine. That’s because diabetes can cause changes in your eyes before you have any symptoms.
During a comprehensive eye exam, your doctor will dilate, or widen, your pupils with drops and then examine your retina and optic nerve for signs of disease. Dilation lets your doctor see more of the back of your eye and look for early signs of diabetic retinopathy.
If you have diabetic retinopathy, early detection and treatment can help prevent it from worsening. So, if you have diabetes, schedule an appointment for a comprehensive dilated eye exam at least once a year.
Control Your Blood Sugar Levels
High blood sugar can damage your blood vessels, including those in your eyes. So, if you have diabetes, it’s essential to keep your blood sugar under control.
Maintain a healthy blood sugar level by:
- Checking your blood sugar often
- Eating a healthy diet
- Exercising regularly
- Taking your diabetes medicine as prescribed
Consult your doctor if you have trouble controlling your blood sugar.
Make Healthy Eating a Priority
Eating a healthy diet is essential for everyone, but it’s vital if you have diabetes. That’s because a healthy diet can help you control your blood sugar.
Healthy diets for diabetics include:
- Plenty of vegetables and fruits
- Whole grains
- Lean proteins
- Healthy fats
Engage In Regular Exercise
Exercise is also important for people with diabetes. That’s because it can help you control your blood sugar. Exercise also helps improve your blood circulation, which can be helpful if you have diabetic retinopathy.
Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise most days of the week. Swimming, biking, and walking are all excellent options. You may need to start slowly and build up to your goal over time. And if you have trouble exercising, talk to your doctor.
Contact Kirk Eye Center in Loveland, CO, at 970-408-3268 to learn more about your eye health and vision. Helping people with troubling eye and vision symptoms is what we do best.
