Nearly 40 million Americans have diabetes, and those individuals have an elevated risk of cataracts. This condition happens when your eye’s clear lens starts to cloud over, making it harder to see.
Diabetes increases your risk of developing cataracts, especially among younger people. Fortunately, you can protect your eyes and vision. In recognition of National Diabetes Month, Curtis Frank, OD, and our team at Vision and Ortho-K Center offer these six tips that can help.
Maintaining a stable blood sugar (glucose) level is essential for slowing cataract development. That’s because when glucose levels are consistently higher than normal, it causes changes in the proteins contained in your eye’s lenses, leading to clouding and cataracts. Managing blood sugar levels protects your eyes and your overall health, too.
Diabetes often occurs alongside high blood pressure and cholesterol, two health factors that also increase your risk of cataracts (and other eye diseases and conditions).
Keeping track of your cholesterol and blood pressure numbers is essential for managing diabetes and reducing your risk of early cataracts. An annual physical provides a regular opportunity to track these health factors over time.
Cataracts develop slowly over time, and in their earliest stages, their symptoms can be very hard to detect.
An annual eye exam plays a critical role in diagnosing cataracts in their earliest stages so they can be managed. Regular exams also help Dr. Frank identify other diabetes-related eye issues, like macular edema, glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy.
Long-term sun exposure hastens cataract development. Wearing sunglasses that protect against ultraviolet (UV) radiation (both UVA and UVB) shields your eyes from harmful rays. Wear glasses every day, even when it’s cloudy, and consider pairing them with a brimmed hat for added protection.
Deeply colored fruits, vegetables, and leafy greens are rich in antioxidants. These special micronutrients help ward off cell damage, including damage that leads to cataracts (and other eye diseases).
Following a healthy diet helps manage diabetes, so you can enjoy double the benefits from this one simple change.
Smoking damages your blood vessels, including the tiny vessels in your eyes, preventing your eyes from getting the nutrients they need for optimal health. It also leads to inflammatory changes that damage your eyes and your vision.
Quitting smoking offers major benefits for your eye health, and of course, your overall wellness, especially if you have diabetes.
Playing a more active role in diabetes management can have far-reaching benefits, including reducing your risk of early cataracts.
To learn how we can help you protect your vision or to schedule a comprehensive diabetic eye exam, request an appointment with Dr. Frank and the team at Vision and Ortho-K Center in Boston, Massachusetts, today.
