November is Diabetic Eye Disease Month, a time to bring awareness to the devastating effects diabetes can have on vision and encourage those with diabetes to protect their eyes with preventative measures by making an appointment with Lake Nona Eye Care for a comprehensive exam.
Among working Americans, diabetes is the leading cause of blindness. Those with the disease are at risk for developing cataracts, glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy. Over 3.6 million people living in the United States over the age of 40, suffer from the debilitating vision problems caused by diabetic retinopathy.
The National Eye Institute describes the symptoms of diabetic retinopathy;
“In its early stages, has no symptoms. The disease begins to damage the small blood vessels in the retina, the light-sensing layer of tissue in the back of the eye, causing them to leak fluid and blood. As the disease progresses, blood vessels become blocked and rupture or new vessels grow on the retina, leading to permanent and sometimes profound vision loss.”
Unfortunately, diabetic eye disease has little to no warning signs. The best way to prevent vision loss and even blindness is with regular eye exams for early detection and timely treatment, before vision loss is experienced.Though there is no cure for this devastating disease there are treatment options available.
It is also important for those with diabetes to take their medication as directed, control their blood sugar levels, eat a well balanced diet, and get plenty of exercise.
Regardless of your physical well-being or your age, routine eye exams are vital to healthy eyes. Many eye diseases can threaten more than just our vision, they can affect our overall well being. During an eye exam Dr. Ward and the Team at Lake Nona Eye Care do much more than just establish your prescription for contact lenses or eyeglasses. A compressive exam will include checking for eye diseases and other issues leading to vision loss.
Don’t put if off any longer, schedule your comprehensive eye exam today with Lake Nona Eye Care or call us at 407-658-9990