According to the American Diabetes Association, diabetes is a silent worker. You may not be aware that you already have diabetes. Diabetic retinopathy is one of its complications. With the proper discipline and pointers, you can prevent the onset of this vision problem. If you want to find out about the top tips for preventing diabetic retinopathy, here’s what you should know.
Get Extensive Routine Eye Checks
A regular eye exam can help detect signs of diabetic retinopathy or any serious eye condition. Your ophthalmologist could then provide you with early treatment. Once you reach 40, you should start taking better care of your eyes. Below is a routine eye exam schedule that is recommended by eye experts:
40 years old: Baseline eye check
40-55 years old: Eye check every two to four years
55-64 years old: Eye check every one to three years
65 years old and above: Yearly eye check
Take in Proper Nutrients
Experts say that you should get all your nutrients from your food. Always make sure that you have a healthy plate. Choose foods that are rich in vitamin A, zeaxanthin, vitamin C, fatty acids, and lutein.
Have Computer Breaks
Long hours of computer work can cause dry eye syndrome. Be sure to have regular breaks by using the 20-20-20 rule.
Stop Smoking
Any form of tobacco is a source of cyanide. This toxic material can destroy the cells in your eyes. Studies also show that tobacco impedes the proper circulation and oxygenation of blood. Stop smoking, and you will ensure the health of your eyes and your entire body.
Avoid Stress
Stress can cause your blood pressure to shoot up. If this happens, the tiny capillaries in your retina will burst, causing pain and visual distortion.
Wear Eye Protection
By wearing UV-protective eyewear, sunscreen, and a wide-brimmed hat, you can prevent eyelid cancer and retinal damage. Pick sunglasses that have 100 percent UVB and UVA protection.
Be Aware of Vision Changes
You should be vigilant in noticing certain changes in your eyes. If you notice dark spots or blurry vision, see your eye doctor immediately. Early detection means early treatment.
Monitor Blood Sugar Levels
Always be aware of your blood glucose levels. Keep your levels under control so that you can prevent complications like diabetic retinopathy.
Control Your Blood Pressure
If you have high blood pressure, do your best to lower it. You can take medications and reduce the stress levels in your home or workplace. Uncontrolled blood pressure can result in the bursting of thin blood vessels in your eyes.
Exercise Regularly
Daily exercise improves your circulation. Maintaining this routine provides your eyes with enough oxygenated blood.
You can prevent diabetic retinopathy with the mentioned tips. At Grin Eye Care, we encourage our patients to keep their routine eye checks for early detection of this condition. Please visit our clinics in Leawood and Olathe, Kansas, for an in-person consultation. You can also call us at 913-829-5511 for appointment scheduling or inquiries about our diabetic retinopathy treatment packages.
