Focus on Eye Health
Glaucoma Awareness Month
From the momentous to the mundane, your vision is precious: It’s everything from a smile on a grandchild’s face to kicking back with a favorite book. January is Glaucoma Awareness Month, a time to shine a light on a condition that threatens the vision of millions worldwide – even if they don’t know it. Known as the “silent thief of sight," glaucoma develops gradually; by the time it causes noticeable symptoms, irreversible vision loss has often already taken place.
For those with diabetes, the risk of developing glaucoma is even higher. In fact, studies show that people with diabetes are twice as likely to develop glaucoma than those without diabetes. The longer you have diabetes, the greater your risk becomes. But by understanding the connection between the two conditions and taking preventive measures, you can help safeguard your vision.
Glaucoma refers to a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, which is vital for clear vision. This damage is often caused by elevated pressure in the eye. People with diabetes are more likely to develop a specific type of glaucoma known as neovascular glaucoma. High blood sugar levels can lead to abnormal blood vessel growth in the eye, preventing fluid from draining and increasing eye pressure.
Tips to Prevent Glaucoma and Protect Your Eyes
While some risk factors, like age and genetics, can’t be controlled, there are steps you can take to lower your risk of glaucoma and maintain eye health:
Manage Your Blood Sugar Levels
Consistently high blood sugar can damage blood vessels in the eyes, increasing your risk of glaucoma and other eye diseases. Cascade Health’s diabetes educators can help you develop a plan to manage your condition and keep blood sugar at a healthy level.
Get Regular Eye Exams
Early detection is crucial for preventing vision loss from glaucoma. If you have diabetes, schedule an eye exam at least once a year. These exams can detect changes in eye pressure and optic nerve health before symptoms appear.
Maintain a Healthy Diet
A diet rich in antioxidants, vitamins and minerals supports overall eye health. Leafy greens, brightly colored fruits and omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce inflammation and protect the optic nerve.
Stay Active
Regular exercise can lower eye pressure and improve blood flow to the optic nerve.
Quit Smoking and Limit Alcohol
Smoking damages blood vessels, including those in the eyes, while excessive alcohol intake can make it harder to control blood sugar and increases your risk of eye disease.
Know Your History
A family history of glaucoma increases your risk. Let your physician or eye doctor know about others in your family with glaucoma to ensure appropriate monitoring and care.
Protecting your sight means - no pun intended - opening your eyes to the risks posed by diabetes and taking steps to stay healthy. If you’re looking for support and guidance in doing just that, find out more about Cascade Health Nutrition & Diabetes Education here.