Eyes & Vision :: Diabetes Self-Management

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Many people with diabetes develop eye complications, such as diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, cataracts, and other conditions, that can lead to impaired vision or vision loss. The good news is that vision loss is often preventable. Keeping blood glucose levels in check can lower the risk of eye complications, and regular visits to an optometrist or ophthalmologist can help you detect and treat problems as early as possible. Read the articles below to find out about ways to avoid visual impairment, as well as ways to deal with it.

Avoiding Eye Complications by A. Paul Chous, M.A., O.D.

When it comes to diabetes-related eye complications, the good news is that most cases of severe vision loss due to diabetes are preventable. The bad news is that tens of thousands of people still lose vision to diabetes each year, despite all that is…

Also inside: Eye Diseases Associated With Diabetes

Talking Meters by Ann S. Williams, Ph.D., R.N., C.D.E.

Self-monitoring of blood glucose is one of the areas of diabetes self-management that is deeply affected by severe visual impairment. When people with diabetes learn they have permanent visual impairment, one of the first questions they often ask a…

Also inside: Insurance Coverage for Talking Meters, Resources, Strips: Which End is Which?

Tools and Techniques for Visual Impairment by Connie Kleinbeck, R.N., B.S.N., C.D.E.

Diabetes is the leading cause of new blindness for American adults between the ages of 20 and 74. The American Diabetes Association (ADA) estimates that 12,000 to 24,000 people in the United States lose their vision to diabetic retinopathy each year. But…

Also inside: Product Manufacturers and Distributors, Resources

What to Expect at Your Eye Exam by Harry G. Randall, M.D.

If you are lucky enough to have good eyesight, you may be surprised when your diabetes care team recommends that you make an appointment with an eye doctor. If your vision is stable, and your eyes don’t bother you, why should you have your eyes…

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