Diabetes is a serious illness that can affect many different areas of your body. It can also affect your eyes and vision. The best things that you can do to protect your vision are to keep your diabetes under control and to get frequent comprehensive eye exams from an eye doctor. At Jackson Eye in Fairburn, Dr. Jackson and our team understand the importance of diabetic eye exams for your eye health. Let’s look at some of the effects that diabetes can have on your eyes.

Blurry Vision

If you are diabetic and you notice that your vision is blurry, it may not be because you need to get your lenses changed. When your blood sugar is high it can cause your vision to blur. Keeping your blood sugar within the acceptable range is essential for continued clear vision.

Diabetic Retinopathy

With diabetic retinopathy, the blood vessels in the eye may bulge or leak. In the early stages, this doesn't affect much, but as the blood vessels close off, new ones grow onto the retina. These new blood vessels can seriously affect your vision.

Diabetic Macular Edema

The macula is the center of the retina and is necessary to read and drive. Edema is a swelling in the macula that over time can lead to loss of vision.

Glaucoma

Glaucoma damages the optic nerve that connects your eyes to your brain. You are more likely to develop glaucoma if you have diabetes.

Cataracts

Cataracts are a cloudy film that develops over the lenses in your eye. People with diabetes are more likely to develop cataracts and to develop them at a younger age. Glucose at high levels can contribute to the film.

Contact Our Optometrist in Fairburn, GA

When you have diabetes, getting a diabetic eye exam is a necessity. At Jackson Eye, we will perform a comprehensive eye exam and help you maintain your eye health. Call our team today at (770) 629-4351 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Jackson.