How to avoid Diabetic Retinopathy? 

Posted on: July 19, 2024

As a diabetic, it is crucial to take proactive steps to manage your condition and prevent complications like diabetic retinopathy. Clement Chan, M.D., FACS and Steven Lin, M.D. from Desert Retina Consultants have been treating diabetic retinopathy for over 30 years in the Coachella Valley and share their experience for avoiding or reducing the risks of this common eye condition. Diabetic retinopathy occurs when high blood sugar levels damage the blood vessels in the retina, potentially leading to vision loss.  

Here are several strategies to help you avoid developing diabetic retinopathy:

1. Maintain Good Blood Sugar Control: 
Keeping your blood sugar levels within your target range is the most critical factor in preventing diabetic retinopathy. 

• Monitor Blood Glucose: Regularly check your blood sugar levels using a glucometer and keep a record to track trends. 
• Follow Your Treatment Plan: Adhere to the medication regimen prescribed by your healthcare provider, including insulin or oral hypoglycemic agents. 
• Healthy Diet: Consume a balanced diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and lean proteins. Avoid sugary and processed foods that can spike blood sugar levels. 
• Exercise Regularly: Engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week, such as walking, swimming, or cycling. Exercise helps improve insulin sensitivity and control blood sugar levels. 

2. Regular Eye Examinations: 
Early detection of diabetic retinopathy is crucial for effective treatment and prevention of vision loss. 

• Annual Dilated Eye Exam: Have a comprehensive dilated eye exam at least once a year, even if you don’t have any vision problems. This allows your eye doctor to detect any early signs of retinopathy. 
• More Frequent Exams: If you already have some degree of retinopathy or other eye problems, your doctor may recommend more frequent eye exams. 

3. Control Blood Pressure and Cholesterol: 
High blood pressure and cholesterol levels can exacerbate diabetic retinopathy. 

• Monitor Blood Pressure: Regularly check your blood pressure and aim to keep it within the target range recommended by your healthcare provider. 
• Healthy Diet: A diet low in saturated fats and cholesterol can help manage your blood pressure and cholesterol levels. 
• Medications: Take prescribed medications for blood pressure and cholesterol as directed. 

4. Avoid Smoking: 
Smoking increases the risk of diabetic retinopathy and other diabetes-related complications. 

• Quit Smoking: Seek support from smoking cessation programs, medications, or counseling to help you quit smoking. 

5. Manage Stress: 
Chronic stress can negatively impact blood sugar levels and overall health. 

• Stress-Reduction Techniques: Practice stress-reducing activities such as yoga, meditation, deep breathing exercises, or hobbies you enjoy. 

6. Follow Up on Vision Changes: 

Be vigilant about any changes in your vision and seek prompt medical attention if you notice symptoms such as blurred vision, floaters, dark spots, or difficulty seeing at night. 

Dr. Chan recommends that by maintaining good blood sugar control, regularly monitoring their eye health, managing blood pressure and cholesterol, avoiding smoking, and reducing stress, patients can significantly lower their risk of developing diabetic retinopathy.  

If you have concerns about your diabetes and the related impact on your vision or if you want to learn more about diabetic retinopathy care, we encourage you to schedule an appointment with Desert Retina Consultants. Call (790) 340-2394 today to speak with our team and take proactive steps towards preserving your vision.