November is a special month, marked by the changing seasons and our commitment to diabetes awareness. It’s a time when we come together to recognize the daily challenges faced by those managing diabetes. Among these challenges, one often overlooked aspect is the vulnerability of our eye health. For people with both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, the threat of diabetic eye diseases is a constant concern, and the stakes are high, as these diseases can lead to vision loss. In this blog post, we want to share not just information but a heartfelt message about the significance of scheduling and keeping optometry appointments. We aim to convey the importance of choosing our optometry services, built on a foundation of understanding, care, and empathy for your well-being.

The Diabetes-Eye Connection

People with diabetes face a higher risk of developing diabetic eye disease, also known as diabetic retinopathy. These diseases occur when high blood sugar levels damage the blood vessels in the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. If left untreated, diabetic retinopathy can lead to severe vision problems and even blindness. The statistics are sobering:

• 1 in 3 people with diabetes will develop diabetic retinopathy (National Eye Institute)
• Diabetic eye diseases are the leading cause of blindness among working-age adults (Prevent Blindness)
• People with diabetes are 25 times more likely to go blind than those without diabetes (University of North Carolina School of Medicine)

The Importance of Regular Eye Check-ups

The key to preventing diabetic eye diseases from progressing is early detection and treatment. Regular eye examinations by an optometrist specializing in diabetes-related eye care are essential. These check-ups can catch any issues before they become more severe and help protect your vision. 

At our optometry practice, we understand the unique needs of individuals with diabetes and have a dedicated team of optometrists specializing in diabetic eye care. Our doctor, Dr. Riley LeBlanc, says, “As your optometrist, I see beyond prescriptions and lenses. Diabetes is the leading cause of preventable blindness among adults. Education and early dedication are crucial to avoid these concerns, and I am dedicated to guiding my patients every step of the way.” Here are some reasons to choose our services:

• Expertise: Our optometrists have the knowledge and experience to detect and manage diabetic eye diseases effectively. 
• Advanced Technology: We use state-of-the-art equipment to provide accurate and timely eye health assessments.
• Personalized Care: We understand that each patient is different and tailor our approach to your specific needs and concerns.

The Risks of Neglecting Eye Health

Neglecting your eye health when you have diabetes can have serious consequences. Our doctor, Dr. Allec Fayad, says, “There are a group of eye diseases that can result from diabetes. I always try to educate my patients on overall health and not just ocular health, as they go hand in hand. Glaucoma, cataracts, and even bleeding and swelling in the back of the eye can result from uncontrolled blood sugar levels, and we can diagnose these in our chair. The best way to prevent any diabetic related eye issues is by managing your blood sugar levels, along with your cholesterol levels, and your blood pressure. If you have diabetes, or a family history of diabetes, it’s a great practice to regularly get your eyes checked by an optometrist to ensure your eyes, and subsequently, your body, are in great health.” The longer diabetic eye diseases go undiagnosed and untreated, the higher the risk of:

• Blindness: Diabetic retinopathy is a leading cause of blindness in adults.
• Other Vision Problems: Diabetes can lead to eye conditions such as cataracts and glaucoma.
• Reduced Quality of Life: Vision impairment can hinder your daily activities, independence, and overall quality of life.

As we conclude Diabetes Awareness Month, we want to emphasize the deep empathy and care we hold for those managing diabetes and its challenges. We understand the worries that come with the territory, especially regarding your eye health. Our heartfelt message is simple: don’t let diabetic eye diseases cast a shadow over your vision and quality of life. The path forward involves scheduling regular optometry appointments, and choosing our services means you’re not alone in this journey.

Your vision is precious; we’re here to preserve it with understanding and compassion. Early detection, timely intervention, and personalized care are not just words for us – they’re our commitment to you. Reach out to us today, and let’s embark on a journey to safeguard your vision, your hope, and your dreams despite the challenges of diabetes. Your well-being is our priority; together, we can face the future with clarity and care.