Diabetes can cause damage to many organs and other systems of the body, including the eyes. Complications from diabetes can cause heart and kidney disease, stroke, and even vision loss. Diabetic eye disease can also put those affected at risk for other vision problems such as cataracts and glaucoma.
Diabetic eye disease is referred to as a group of eye conditions that may affect people with diabetes. Every form of diabetic eye disease has the potential to cause vision loss or blindness. Eye conditions caused by diabetic eye disease include:
Anyone with diabetic eye disease is at risk for developing vision problems or vision loss from diabetic eye disease, but some are at a higher risk than others. The National Eye Health Education Program determined that these groups are at a higher risk for vision loss and blindness due to diabetic eye disease:
Diabetes is the leading cause of blindness in adults between the ages of 15-64. Vision loss caused by diabetic eye diseases, such as glaucoma or diabetic retinopathy, cannot be restored, so it is important to see your eye doctor for regular exams where issues can be addressed early and properly treated.
Many eye conditions can begin to develop asymptomatically, showing no signs or symptoms. This makes it easy for some eye diseases, like glaucoma, to go undetected and cause irreversible damage to your vision before you seek treatment.
Here at Dittman Eyecare, we understand the importance of preventing eye disease and preserving your vision. With our proactive testing and treatments, we can use comprehensive preventative care to help you maintain your vision health. Call us today to schedule an eye exam or to learn more about diabetic vision care.