How can diabetic eye disease be prevented?
As with any complication of diabetes, the best treatment is prevention. Many studies have shown that effective control of blood sugar levels, by insulin therapy in Type I diabetes and by dietary measures and medications in Type II diabetes, delays the onset and slows the progression of retinopathy. Controlling blood pressure and weight, and treating infections promptly also reduce eye problems and other diabetic complications. Regular eye examinations are recommended for all diabetics. The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends the following schedule of eye examinations for diabetics: • For persons who contract diabetes before reaching age 30 — a first eye examination five years after diagnosis, with annual exams hereafter and more often if symptoms of trouble develop • When diabetes is diagnosed when a person is more than 30 years old — an eye examination as soon as the diagnosis is made, with annual eye examinations thereafter Pregnancy is a special case. An examination is re
