Diabetes threatens your eyesight. Don’t wait for symptoms to protect it.

By DR. MARK MUGAVIN
Guest Columnist

Think about how much you depend on your eyesight every day without even thinking about it. Driving to work, reading a book, or watching your children grow are things we often take for granted. Few things can change someone’s life more profoundly than losing their vision.

As an ophthalmologist, I know how devastating vision loss can be. I see it every day. I also know that many cases of serious vision loss related to diabetes could have been prevented with early detection and treatment. That’s why I’m encouraging Hoosiers living with diabetes to make eye screenings a priority this Diabetes Awareness Month.

According to the American Diabetes Association, approximately 764,000 Indiana adults – 12.7 percent of our entire population – have diabetes. Another 55,000 are diagnosed every year.

Diabetes increases the risk of heart disease, kidney damage, nerve problems and vision loss. While managing blood sugar is essential, regular screenings for all of these can catch complications before they become serious.

The danger you can’t see

Diabetic retinopathy occurs when diabetes damages blood vessels in the retina, the tissue at the back of your eye that helps you see.

What’s particularly concerning is that early stages often have no symptoms. You may see perfectly well even as damage develops. Without treatment, the condition can progress to blurred vision, bleeding inside the eye, and permanent vision loss.

The good news is that early detection and timely treatment can prevent many cases of serious vision loss. But you can’t wait for symptoms to tell you when it’s time for an exam.

People with type 2 diabetes generally need a comprehensive, dilated eye exam when diagnosed. Adults with type 1 diabetes generally should have their first exam within five years of onset. Annual follow-up is typically recommended, although your eye doctor may suggest a different schedule based on your needs.

And remember, a routine vision test for glasses isn’t necessarily the same as a diabetic eye exam.

Making preventive care easier

I recognize that getting recommended care isn’t always simple. Transportation challenges, appointment availability, work schedules and financial concerns can make it difficult, especially in communities with fewer specialists.

That’s why we need to make screenings easier to access.

Primary care providers, eye specialists, pharmacists and health plans also have a shared responsibility to work together so patients understand their risks, receive recommended screenings, and get timely follow-up care.

Five steps for better diabetes health

Whether you’re managing diabetes or concerned about your risk, here are five steps I encourage you to take:

1. Protect your sight. Get recommended diabetic eye screenings, even when your vision seems normal.
2. Know your numbers. Monitor blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol with your healthcare team.
3. Stay current on preventive care. Ask about A1C testing, kidney screenings and foot exams, as appropriate.
4. Build healthy habits. Stay active, eat balanced meals, and take prescribed medications.
5. Ask for help. Tell your care team if cost, transportation, or scheduling makes care difficult.

If you haven’t been diagnosed with diabetes, talk with your healthcare provider about your risk factors and whether testing makes sense.

Managing diabetes isn’t about perfection. It’s about taking consistent steps, getting the right care, and identifying problems early.

As a physician, I want every patient to have the best opportunity to maintain their health and independence. Protecting your vision is an important part of that commitment.

This November, don’t put off that eye exam. It’s a small step that could make a big difference in how you see the world.

Dr. Mark Mugavin is Medical Director for Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield in Indiana and a board-certified ophthalmologist.