Six Essential Eye Care Tips for People With Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes affects many of the body's systems and organs, including the eyes. High blood sugar caused by diabetes can damage the eye's blood vessels, leading to diabetic retinopathy as well as a higher risk for glaucoma and cataracts. Those who have this chronic condition can take these six preventive steps to maintain good vision and protect the eyesight from the degenerative effects of diabetes.

Have Regular Eye Exams

An annual eye exam can assist with early diagnosis and treatment of issues caused by diabetes. This visit should include a dilated eye exam, in which drops are used to dilate the pupils and evaluate the condition of the tiny blood vessels in the eyes. Eye doctors may recommend more frequent appointments for those at high risk for eye problems.

Control Blood Sugar

High blood sugar is responsible for many problems associated with diabetes, including retinopathy (damage to the blood vessels of the eyes). Take steps to keep your blood sugar under 7 percent or at a number the doctor recommends. A quarterly A1C blood test can evaluate average blood sugar over a few months.

Manage Hypertension

Many people with diabetes struggle with high blood pressure, which can also cause eye damage. Have blood pressure checked regularly; it should ideally be under 140/90. Those with higher levels may need to control hypertension with medication and lifestyle changes, such as losing weight, limiting dietary salt and fat, and developing an exercise routine.

Eat a Nutritious Diet

Consuming plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains leads to lower blood sugar and lower cholesterol, which can prevent damage to the blood vessels in the eyes. Limiting fatty and sugary foods can help lower cholesterol levels as well.

Quit Smoking

Smoking exacerbates the risk for eye problems since it also causes blood vessel damage. If you smoke, talk with a medical professional who can recommend strategies to help you quit.

Exercise Regularly

Keeping the body healthy limits the complications of diabetes. Most people should get at least 30 minutes of exercise each day, such as brisk walking or other activities that raise the heart rate.

Those who need regular eye exams to control diabetes-related problems can visit one of the three convenient Portsmouth-area locations of Excellent Vision. Our doctors provide diagnosis and treatment for a range of conditions, including low vision, cataracts, glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy.

Are Cataracts Hereditary? Understanding Risk Factors

Cataracts are a gradual clouding of the eye's clear lens, causing blurred vision and difficulty seeing at night. Over time, the symptoms of this condition worsen and cause more serious vision problems, including light sensitivity, worsening eyesight, the appearance of halos around lights, faded colors, and even double vision. Cataracts tend to develop in response to age-related changes in the eye, but are cataracts hereditary?

Risk Factors for Cataracts 

Although those who have a family history of cataracts are more likely to develop this condition, other risk factors also contribute. Cataracts are more common among people who are older than 60, are obese, smoke, have diabetes or high blood pressure, have been exposed to UV rays without eye protection, had a previous eye injury or surgery, drink alcohol excessively, or use corticosteroid medications. Keep in mind that cataracts are a very common condition, and they are even more common among those with a family history. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, more than half of Americans develop a cataract in at least one eye by age 80.

Preventing Cataracts

While it's impossible to influence a family history of cataracts, controlling other risk factors can help keep the eyes healthy. The following are some preventive measures to take:

• Quitting smoking
• Limiting alcohol to no more than one drink a day
• Having regular eye exams
• Managing chronic conditions like hypertension and diabetes
• Eating a nutritious diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables, particularly those rich in antioxidants such as berries and leafy greens
• Wearing sunglasses with UV protection when outdoors

Treatment Options for Patients With Cataracts

Those that are experiencing blurred vision and light sensitivity due to cataracts can dramatically improve their quality of vision through cataract surgery. The eye surgeon will remove the affected lens and replace it with a clear intraocular lens (IOL) implant to restore sight and reduce symptoms like blurriness. Cataract surgery is typically an outpatient procedure done under local anesthetic. Patients can return to normal activities within a day or two.

In the Portsmouth, NH area, trust the expertise of our doctors at Excellent Vision. In particular, our own Dr. Richard J. Lasonde specializes in cataract surgery and has helped thousands of patients achieve better vision through IOL implants. Those having problems with their eyesight can call us at 603-430-5225 for an appointment at one of our convenient locations in Maine and New Hampshire.