November is Diabetes and Vision Loss Awareness Month. We asked Dr. Penny Reck. M.D. to tell us a bit about maintaining eye health when you have diabetes.

First, please tell us a bit about your background and area of expertise

I am a retinal specialist which means I have undergone additional training to specialize in medical and surgical treatment of diseases of the retina and vitreous. There is a wide range of eye conditions that affect the retina, the thin layer of photosensitive tissue that lines the back of the eye. Among these conditions is diabetic retinopathy.

How does diabetes affect a person's vision?

Diabetes can affect a person’s vision in several ways. Poor blood glucose control can result in blurry vision and lead to problems like cataract formation and diabetic retinopathy. A person with diabetes is also almost at twice the risk to get glaucoma in comparison to those without diabetes.

Is there any way to prevent vision loss in people with diabetes?

The best way to prevent vision loss due to diabetes is by good blood glucose control. Research has shown that well-controlled blood glucose levels can help slow the onset and progression of diabetic retinopathy. Also, patients with diabetes should have a comprehensive dilated eye exam at least once a year. If diabetic retinopathy is detected, it may be recommended to be seen more frequently.

If a diabetic has already lost some of their vision, is there a way to correct/restore it?

Depending on the cause and severity of vision loss, vision may improve with treatment. However, vision loss due to diabetes may have a lasting effect. It is important to understand that the presence of diabetic eye disease may be a limiting factor to the best vision that one may have, even after successful treatment. If the disease is severe, treatment is necessary to help to maintain a person’s vision and prevent further vison loss.

Any final thoughts?

Vision loss from diabetic eye disease is largely preventable with good blood glucose control and regular follow-up with your ophthalmologist.