National Diabetes Month is observed every November in order to bring awareness to individuals, families, and health care professionals of the major impact diabetes can have on millions of Americans all across the country.
Many don’t realize that Diabetes is the leading cause of blindness in people under the age of 65. Most people are unaware of the fact there are several serious eye diseases which can be caused by diabetes. These are called “diabetic eye diseases.”
Types of diabetic eye diseases include:
– Diabetic Retinopathy
– Diabetic Macular Edema
– Cataracts
– Glaucoma
– Blindness
Diabetic eye disease is caused from high blood sugar. Over a number of years, high blood sugar (hyperglycemia) and other abnormalities in metabolism found in people with diabetes, can damage the blood vessels in the body. This damage will lead to poor circulation of the blood to various parts of the body which then causes decreased oxygen delivery to tissues in different parts of the body. This diabetes caused process will eventually damage those tissues.
The areas which are most susceptible to this damage include the brain, heart, kidneys, and eyes. Long-term decreased blood flow and oxygen delivery to these areas can cause strokes, heart attacks, kidney failure, and vision loss.
Common Symptoms of Diabetes
– Extreme fatigue
– Blurry vision
– Cuts or bruises that are slow to heal
– Urinating often
– Feeling very thirsty
– Feeling very hungry even though you are eating
– Tingling, pain, or numbness in the hands or feet
If left unchecked, diabetic eye diseases can be dangerous to your eyesight because even though some symptoms such as hazy vision, difficulty focusing, or sensitivity to night glare from oncoming lights may be noticeable, many symptoms are not noticeable until damage to the eyes has already taken place. This is why it is important to inform your eye doctor if you have been diagnosed with diabetes. Your doctor will explain the tests and exams which they perform to help detect the various diabetic eye diseases before they do serious damage to your precious eyes.
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If you have any questions or concerns, contact us today to schedule a thorough examination or consultation for yourself or a family member.
