November is Diabetes Month


November is Diabetes awareness month and it is certainly something that should not go unnoticed. Statistically those who suffer from or are at risk from suffering from diabetes are 25% more likely to develop a form of blindness than those who don’t. The most common cause of blindness, particular in America, is Diabetic Retinopathy which is when the blood vessels in the retina become damaged.

Due to the nature of diabetes affecting the blood system, this can take a dramatic toll on the blood vessels within the eyes, therefore leading to impaired vision and in serious cases, blindness. If the diabetic’s blood sugar becomes high, the blood vessels can become blocked or inflated causing them to become weaker and sometimes rupture. Therefore, if you are a sufferer of diabetes it is recommended that you have eye tests every year to detect any noticeable signs of Diabetic Retinopathy as signs aren’t always apparent until further down the line.

You should contact your optician or doctor if you experience any of the following problems, particularly if you are already diabetic or are at a risk of developing it: if you have blurred vision or there are patches of darkness or things hovering in your vision. Some people can also develop what is called a “detached retina” which means that the retina (the part of your eye on which the image you are seeing is reflected upon) becomes detached from the layer beneath it, the choroid. In Diabetic sufferers the retina can become detached due to the blood that is gathering there from the ruptured vessels. This needs immediate medical attention. You will normally find you have flashes within your vision should this occur.

There is no need to worry that by having diabetes you are almost guaranteed such changes in your vision; it is just important for you to be evermore aware of what could potentially happen if you leave any problems with your eyesight untreated and undiagnosed. Your blood sugar level can be controlled to the extent where it will not affect your retina. If you do have any concerns about your vision you should consult your local GP/Optician as soon as possible.

26th November 2009

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