Written By: Bhavyajyoti Chilukoti | Published : November 7, 2017 4:17 PM IST
With an estimated 51 million people currently living with diabetes, India leads the world in the prevalence of diabetes, and this is predicted to go worse by 2030. This is true that people with diabetes do have a higher risk of blindness than people without diabetes, but it is equally true most people with diabetes can keep these problems to a minimum, says Dr Ajay Aggarwal, Senior Consultant, Department of Endocrinology, Fortis Hospital, New Delhi.
Preventive measures for diabetic retinopathy
1. High blood glucose levels are responsible for all forms of diabetic eye disease. Maintain blood sugar level within normal range. The HbA1c level should be tested at least twice a year and be aimed at less than 7 percent. Here's why diabetics should get HbA1c levels tested twice a year.
2. Work with your physician regarding medicines, meal planning, physical activity, and blood glucose monitoring for optimal blood sugar control. Your doctor may advise insulin if your HbA1c level is above 7.5% even after taking OAD s or 9% at the time of diagnosis. The landmark Diabetes Complications and Control Trial, proved that each 10% reduction in average blood glucose levels, as reflected by HbA1c level, lowers the risk of developing diabetic retinopathy by roughly 60% and lowers the risk of preexisting diabetic retinopathy getting worse by 43%.
3. Don't miss appointments with a doctor. When a person is diagnosed with diabetes, it becomes imperative that one has annual vision tests and eye fundus examination. Here are symptoms of diabetic retinopathy you should be aware of!
4. It is better to abstain from alcohol and stop smoking as the harmful chemicals can up the risk fo eye damage and in turn, lead to diabetic retinopathy.
Good control of diabetes, in addition to minimizing the risk of eye complications, goes a long way toward preventing all diabetes complications and ensuring a healthy life for people with diabetes. A healthy diet, regular physical activity, weight loss, smoking cessation; limited alcohol consumption and proper medication all are beneficial. Modern insulin delivery device like Novo Pen, thin needles and home blood glucose delivery devices had made diabetes management really convenient. Control diabetes; get your eyes checked regularly and save your vision.
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