Diabetic retinopathy is a condition in which the blood vessels in the retina are damaged due to high blood sugar levels. If left undiagnosed and untreated, it can also lead to vision loss in people with diabetes.
First people see dark spots as the blood restricts vision, then at a later stage it blocks full vision. However, as is often said, prevention is better than cure. There are a few simple ways to prevent diabetic retinopathy.
- Blood sugar level control
The main way to prevent diabetic retinopathy is to control your diabetes. This is because blood vessels are damaged only due to high sugar levels. Therefore, if you control your sugar level by eating well, exercising and taking medication, you can avoid eye diseases. - Examination of the dilated eye
As is often said, early diagnosis means half-finished treatment. Likewise, diabetic retinopathy can be prevented if diagnosed in time. People with diabetes should have a dilated eye exam once a year. This will contribute to an early diagnosis of the disease, since the symptoms only appear at an advanced stage. - Blood pressure and cholesterol control
Diabetes comes with various other health risks that put a strain on our eyes. High blood pressure and high cholesterol are some examples. If you want to protect your eyes from this blinding disease, it’s important to regularly monitor your blood pressure and cholesterol levels and keep them under control. - eat fruit
Fruits keep us healthy and fit. Instead of eating fatty and salty foods, eat fruits. Reduce salt, sugar and oil in your diet. Fruits are said to be rich in many nutrients that keep eyes healthy and prevent retinopathy in people with diabetes. - Stop smoking and drinking
Smoking and alcohol are key factors in raising blood sugar levels. If you are a regular smoker or drinker, you should quit today to help keep your eyes healthy.
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