Diabetic retinopathy is a problem linked to diabetes. Anyone with diabetes is at risk for diabetic retinopathy.
Risk Factors
Age
Both younger and older people with diabetes are at risk for diabetic retinopathy. Some of the most severe cases of diabetic retinopathy occur in people who were diagnosed with diabetes at a very young age after they have had the disease for many years.
Duration of the Disease
The longer a person has diabetes, the greater the chance of retinopathy. Virtually everyone who was diagnosed with diabetes before age 30 has diabetic retinopathy within 15 years of their diagnosis. About three quarters of those who are diagnosed after age 30 have diabetic retinopathy within 15 years of diagnosis.
Blood Sugar Control
Poor blood sugar control is one of the main causes of diabetic retinopathy. If you have diabetes, you can lower the risk of vision loss by carefully monitoring and controlling blood sugar levels. You may be able to slow the onset and progression of retinopathy and decrease the need for surgery by controlling blood sugar levels through a healthy diet, insulin and other drugs.
Smoking
Quitting smoking can reduce risk for diabetic retinopathy
Alcohol
Alcohol and diabetes are a dangerous combination for many reasons, including an increased risk of diabetic retinopathy
Aspirin
Doctors frequently recommend that people with diabetes take a daily aspirin to help lower their risk of heart and circulatory disease. Aspirin does not appear to increase the risk of diabetic retinopathy. People with diabetes should feel comfortable taking aspirin as recommended by their doctor.
Hypertension
High blood pressure increases the risk of eye disease, as well as heart disease, stroke and kidney disease. It may be necessary to change diet and exercise habits or take medication to keep blood pressure under control.
Pregnancy
While scientists are still unsure why pregnancy seems to increase a woman's risk of developing, or accelerating, diabetic retinopathy. Pregnant women with diabetes should see their eye doctor during their pregnancy.
Renal Disease
Kidney disease is a major complication of diabetes. The earlier kidney disease is diagnosed, the better. Individuals with diabetes must have their urine tested regularly for early signs of kidney disease.
This web resource is made possible through an unrestricted educational grant from Eli Lilly and Company.
Copyright © 2005 Prevent Blindness America ®
|
