By 2030, the National Institutes of Health reports that the number of Americans having eye problems due to diabetes will almost double the current 6.8 million. If you get the best possible Chicago diabetic eye care, minimizing or reversing potential vision loss is possible. For example, according to the National Eye Institute (NEI), you are almost five times more at risk of cataracts if you have diabetes.
When you have diabetes, you will likely have eye problems because high blood glucose destroys blood vessels and nerves gradually. Blood vessels damaged by high blood sugar can inflame, bleed, or leak fluids. A leaking blood vessel reduces blood flow. Below are tips to help you keep your eyes healthy and avoid vision loss if you have diabetes.
1. Dilated eye exam
If you are healthy and aged between 18 to 60, go for eye examinations at least once after every few years. But, if you are more prone to eye conditions, go for dilated eye tests or examinations at least once or twice annually. Increased blood sugar levels put you at high risk of having various eye conditions.
When you go for a dilated eye examination, your eye doctor can detect an underlying problem early enough. Then, treatment can start immediately to protect you against a diabetic-related eye complication.
2. Maintain a healthy level of blood pressure and glucose
Strive to keep normal or healthy blood pressure and blood glucose levels to reduce your risk of developing eye problems. You need to monitor your blood pressure and blood glucose level frequently.
You can keep your blood sugar level healthy by eating regularly and avoiding foods and fluids high in calories. In particular, drink clean water instead of carbonated beverages when dehydrated and thirsty.
On the other hand, you can maintain normal blood pressure by avoiding being obese, exercising regularly, and quitting smoking. Simple exercises you can perform include jogging and dancing.
3. Protect your eyes
If you have diabetes and are constantly exposed to the sun’s UV light, you can become more susceptible to eye diseases. UV light can degenerate different eye structures, leading to reduced vision.
Protect your eyes against the harmful effects of the sun’s UV rays by wearing shades whenever you are outdoors. Ensure the quality of your sunglasses is tested, and thus they can shield the eyes against UVB and UVA radiation.
4. Stay hydrated
Your eyes depend on the water and fluids you drink to produce tears that moisten them. The right level of lubrication is important for keeping your eyes safe from bacteria, dust, and other things that can get into your eye.
Without proper body hydration, the water becomes insufficient to keep your eyes lubricated and moist to function correctly. According to Harvard University, you should drink about four or six cups of water daily to stay hydrated. You can add more water to the body by drinking water, soup, and beverages and consuming hydrating foods like watermelon.
Contact Eye Q Optique today to book a consultation with a specialist offering diabetic eye care services.
