How to Prevent Diabetic Retinopathy: Your Ultimate Guide
How to Prevent Diabetic Retinopathy: Your Ultimate Guide
What's This About?
Preventing diabetic retinopathy is all about managing your diabetes and keeping an eye on your eye health. Here’s how to do it.
Contents
- Regular Eye Screenings
- Managing Blood Sugar Levels
- Controlling Blood Pressure and Cholesterol
Regular Eye Screenings
Regular eye examinations are essential for detecting diabetic retinopathy early. Screening can help catch changes in the eyes before symptoms arise. It’s recommended that people with diabetes have an eye exam at least once a year, or more frequently if advised by their doctor.
Managing Blood Sugar Levels
Keeping blood sugar levels under control is crucial in preventing diabetic retinopathy. Consistent monitoring and maintaining a balanced diet can help stabilize blood sugar. Working closely with healthcare providers to adjust medications as needed is also important.
Controlling Blood Pressure and Cholesterol
High blood pressure and cholesterol can exacerbate diabetic retinopathy. Taking prescribed medications and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help control these conditions. Regular check-ups with healthcare providers ensure these levels are kept in check.
FAQs
How often should I get eye screenings?
At least once a year, or as recommended by your doctor.
Why is blood sugar control important?
It helps prevent the progression of diabetic retinopathy.
Can lifestyle changes help prevent diabetic retinopathy?
Yes, a healthy lifestyle can reduce risk factors.
Should I monitor blood pressure too?
Yes, keeping it under control is important.
Is cholesterol management necessary?
Yes, it helps prevent complications from diabetic retinopathy.
Wrapping Up
Prevention is the best defense against diabetic retinopathy, and it starts with you.
Additional References
- Klein R, Klein BE, Moss SE, et al. The Wisconsin epidemiologic study of diabetic retinopathy. III. Prevalence and risk of diabetic retinopathy when age at diagnosis is 30 or more years. Arch Ophthalmol 1984; 102:527.
- Diabetes Control and Complications Trial (DCCT)/Epidemiology of Diabetes Interventions and Complications (EDIC) Research Group, Lachin JM, White NH, et al. Effect of intensive diabetes therapy on the progression of diabetic retinopathy in patients with type 1 diabetes: 18 years of follow-up in the DCCT/EDIC. Diabetes 2015; 64:631.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.