Diabetes and Your Eye Care

Eyes should be checked yearly. Eye problems that you have now may not be detectable without tests. Catching eye problems early can be important to have them properly treated. Preventing blindness can be helped by treating eye problems early.

Blood glucose levels that are high can make the blood vessels in the eyes bleed. Bleeding can lead to blindness. Keeping your blood glucose as close to normal as possible will help prevent eye damage. If your eyes are already damaged, laser treatments or surgerymay help save your eyes.

Having a yearly eye exam is the best way to prevent eye disease. During this exam, your eye doctor will put drops in your eyes to make your pupils dilate.This is called a dilated eye exam, and it doesn't hurt. If you've never had this kind of eye exam before, you should have one asap. Make sure to inform your eye doctor that you have diabetes.

Here are some tips for taking care of your eyes:

• For people with type 1 diabetes: Have your eyes examined when you have had diabetes for 5 years and every year after that first exam. (Children should have an eye exam in their early teens.)
  
• For people with type 2 diabetes: Have an eye exam every year.
  
• For women planning to have a baby: Have an eye exam before becoming pregnant.
  
• If you smoke, quit.
  
• Keep your blood glucose and blood pressure as close to normal as possible.

When having any problems like blurry vision or seeing dark spots, flashing lights, or rings around lights, tell your eye doctor right away.