November is American Diabetes Month, and the Georgia Optometric Association warns that people who have diabetes for several years are at risk of developing a potentially blinding condition called diabetic retinopathy and need to take steps to protect their vision.

Over time, diabetes can weaken and cause changes in the small blood vessels that nourish the retina, the delicate lining at the back of the eye containing the light sensitive nerve cells needed for vision. When these blood vessels begin to leak, develop brush-like branches or become enlarged, the condition is called diabetic retinopathy. This affects vision in different ways, depending on what changes are occurring and in what part of the retina/ Vision changes include blurred central or side vision, a blind spot in the center of vision, cloudy or hazy vision, blind spots or seeing floaters.

"Symptoms, however, often don't appear in the early stages of the disease," says Dr. Jody Whisenant, president of the Georgia Optometric Association. "That's why people with diabetes need to have a thorough eye health and vision examination every year. Looking inside the eye with an instrument that allows direct viewing of the blood vessels there, the optometrist can diagnose diabetic retinopathy in its earliest stages, when treatment is most effective."

The treatment for diabetic retinopathy involves laser and surgical procedures. These are often successful in reducing the progression of this eye disease and in decreasing the risk of vision loss.

In addition to those who have had diabetes who have increased risk of diabetic retinopathy are those who have fluctuating blood sugar levels; are pregnant; have high blood pressure; smoke.

"Maintaining an adequate level of control of diabetes is an important factor in preventing the development of ocular and medical complications," says Whisenant.

People who want additional information about how diabetes affects vision and eye health can call 1-800-949-0060 to receive a free brochure on the subject.

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