4 Tips To Keep Your Eyes In Good Shape If You Have Diabetes

Posted on: 12 September 2018

Diabetes can wreak havoc on multiple aspects of your body if left unchecked, but with regular care you can learn to manage and ultimately live with this disease. If you have diabetes and are worried about the effects of it over time on your eyes, here are four tips that will help you maintain your eyesight as much as possible.

Dilation Once a Year or More Frequently If Ordered By Doctor

Diabetes patients should get an eye doctor appointment at least once a year just like everyone else, but a key difference should be that your exam will have your eyes fully dilated. Because of the damage diabetes can do, it's important for your eye doctor to get a closer look at exactly what is going on inside your eyes. If you've previously had problems with your eyes as a diabetes patient, your doctor may order more frequent check ups. Stick to the schedule.

Managing Blood Sugar is Just as Important for Your Eyes as the Rest of Your Body

People with diabetes are well aware that managing their blood sugar is an important part of their day to day care. But it's worth pointing out that managing your blood sugar is especially important for your eye care. High blood sugar is what can cause damage to the blood vessels in your retinas, leading to significant problems. 

Boost Certain Nutrients in Your Diet

A nutrient-rich diet can also help your eyes combat complications from diabetes. You ideally want to get a lot of foods that are high in omega-3 fatty acids. These are typically dark green, leafy vegetables. Foods high in antioxidants can also help. Make sure you mention your diet to your eye doctor and include food in your diabetic eye treatment plan.

Get Moving

Regular exercise is beneficial for just about everyone but it's especially important for those with diabetes. A regular exercise schedule will help your body use insulin and can lower your blood pressure and cholesterol over time, two other areas that need to be constantly watched by those with diabetes. Always talk to your doctor of course before starting a new exercise schedule.

Diabetes is a disease that can be managed and kept in check to a certain extent with a proper treatment program. If you are especially concerned about your eyes, reach out to your doctor or optometrist today to come up with a new diabetic eye treatment plan that works for you.

Contact a center like Northwest Ophthalmology for more information.

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