Did you know that diabetes is one of the main causes of preventable sight loss in the UK? i It’s a sobering statistic that underscores just how important regular eye examinations are – not only for maintaining good vision but also for detecting early signs of diabetes before serious complications develop.
At Scrivens Opticians & Hearing Care, we’ve spent over 85 years helping people protect their eyesight and hearing. We understand that an eye test is far more than a simple vision check – it’s a window into your overall wellbeing, including conditions such as diabetes.
4.3 million people across the country are living with diabetes. Perhaps even more concerning is that an estimated 850,000 people have diabetes without knowing it, pushing the true figure beyond 5 million. ii
During a comprehensive eye test, your optometrist can spot telltale signs of diabetes by examining the blood vessels and retinal vascular changes at the back of your eye. These early indicators can prompt further investigation and potentially life-changing early intervention.
Understanding diabetic retinopathy
Around 30% of people with diabetes will develop diabetic retinopathy – damage to the retina (the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye). Left undetected and untreated, this condition can lead to sight loss or even blindness. The good news? Diabetic retinopathy is treatable when caught early, which is why regular screening is so vital.
If you have diabetes, you should have your eyes examined as per your optometrist recommendation or a minimum of every two years. These regular check-ups give your optometrist the opportunity to monitor any changes and refer you for specialist treatment if necessary.
Taking control of your health
Whilst diabetes is a serious condition, there are practical steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing eye complications:
- Keep your health in check. Keeping your blood pressure, glucose levels, and blood fats within healthy ranges through a balanced diet can make a significant difference.
- Stay physically active. Regular exercise helps control blood sugar levels and supports overall health.
- Maintain a healthy weight. Being at an ideal weight reduces strain on your body and helps manage diabetes more effectively.
- Quit smoking. Smoking dramatically increases your risk of diabetic complications, including eye damage.
- Moderate your alcohol intake. Excessive drinking can affect blood sugar control and overall health.
- Manage stress levels. Chronic stress can impact blood sugar levels, so finding healthy ways to manage it is important.
These lifestyle adjustments don’t just protect your eyes – they improve your overall health and quality of life.
If you have any concerns about your eye health or would like to book a comprehensive eye test, you’ll find expert help and advice at your local Scrivens branch.
If you found this blog useful, you may also be interested in learning about glaucoma, which is another leading cause of blindness in the UK.
