Got diabetes? 3 ways to protect your eyes

90% of diabetes-related eye disease is preventable. Follow these tips to keep your eyes healthy when you're living with diabetes.

Transcript

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Living with diabetes, you're probably aware of the risk factors for heart or kidney-related diseases. But did you know that complications for diabetes

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are the leading cause of blindness? [MUSIC PLAYING]

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Eye damage from diabetes complications is called retinopathy. And it happens when chronically high blood sugar damages

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the tiny blood vessels of the retina. But here's some good news. 90% of diabetes-related eye disease is preventable.

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So here are some quick tips to make sure you've got a vision for healthy eyes. First, always get an annual eye exam.

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That will insure eye problems are caught and treated in the early stages. Next, managing your blood sugar helps

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keep your entire body healthy and reduces your risk for additional complications. For most people, that means a target blood sugar

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of 80 to 130 milligrams per deciliter before meals and less than 180 milligrams per deciliter after meals, and reaching

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the target A1C of less than 7%. Of course, we know that following a healthy eating plan and exercising is a big part of a healthy lifestyle for anyone.

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But for people living with diabetes, it's especially important. Excess fat on the body can release hormones that lead to insulin resistance and blood sugar

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problems that can also damage your eyes and other organs. Lastly, don't postpone insulin therapy

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if recommended by your health care provider. The biggest myth about diabetes is that you should wait as long as possible before beginning insulin therapy.

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But for people who need insulin to reach their blood sugar goals, insulin injections are the most effective way of preventing diabetes complications

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such as retinopathy. Additionally, laser eye treatments can be used to stop damage to the retina, as can medication.

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I'm Dr. Sobel. For more ways to take care of your diabetes, check out all our smart tips. [MUSIC PLAYING]