Every November, Diabetes Awareness Month highlights the importance of managing diabetes to prevent complications — including serious eye health issues. For diabetic patients, regular visits to an eye doctor are essential to avoid vision problems before they develop into something more severe.
Why Diabetic Patients Should Prioritize Eye Health
Diabetes is one of the leading causes of preventable visual impairments. Sight-threatening conditions like diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, and cataracts are common among those living with diabetes. Diabetic retinopathy alone affects over 30% of adults with diabetes in the United States. This condition can cause blurred vision, floaters, or even permanent vision loss if left untreated.
However, with early detection and proper care, many of these complications can be managed or even prevented. That’s why working closely with a Walla Walla optometrist plays a crucial role in preserving your eyesight.
How Regular Eye Exams Can Prevent Complications
Even if your vision feels fine, diabetes can cause silent changes in your eyes before symptoms appear. Regular eye exams help detect subtle changes early, allowing an eye doctor near you to recommend timely interventions. These could include adjusting medications, suggesting lifestyle changes, or starting treatments like injections or laser procedures.
It’s recommended that diabetic patients have a comprehensive eye exam at least once a year. This helps catch issues such as:
- Diabetic retinopathy: Damage to the blood vessels in the retina
- Macular edema: Swelling in the retina that can impair vision
- Cataracts and glaucoma: Which develop more quickly in diabetic patients
Get Professional Diabetic Eye Care in Walla Walla
At Valley Vision Clinic, we provide specialized diabetic eye care tailored to monitor and protect your vision. Our team stays up to date on the latest technologies and treatments to ensure your eyes stay healthy despite the challenges of diabetes.
Don’t wait for symptoms to appear—schedule an appointment with our eye doctors in Walla Walla, WA, today!