Common Risk Factors for Diabetic Retinopathy

Diabetes can affect your body in several ways, including your eyes and vision. Diabetic retinopathy occurs when diabetes impacts the vessels that supply the retina with blood, causing a complete and sudden loss of vision. Though this condition is a common complication of diabetes, some people are more likely to develop diabetic retinopathy than others. Our ophthalmology team at Southwest Retina Eye Center in Odessa, TX, is here to share common risk factors for diabetic retinopathy.

Time Spent Living With Diabetes

The longer you live with diabetes, the more likely you are to develop diabetic retinopathy, especially If you do not properly manage your diabetes. More than half of the people with diabetes tend to develop some level of diabetic retinopathy around or after 10 years of having the condition. Regular appointments with your eye doctor are vital for monitoring the impact your diabetes has on your retina’s blood vessels.

High Blood Sugar and Blood Pressure Levels

Those who consistently have a high blood sugar level are at a greater risk of getting diabetic retinopathy than those who keep their glucose level in check. High blood pressure also significantly impacts your blood vessels, increasing your risk of vision loss. The impact of high blood pressure is also much worse when diabetes is in play.

High Cholesterol

High cholesterol can build up in your retina, increasing the likelihood of damage to the retina and optic nerve. High cholesterol also increases your risk for permanent vision loss if you already have diabetic retinopathy. Since high cholesterol does not typically cause noticeable symptoms, your eye surgeon can determine if there is any damage to your eyes during your regular eye exams. 

Smoking

Smoking is an addiction that impacts several areas of your body and can lead to severe health conditions. Smoking causes your blood vessels to narrow, causing significant damage to the blood vessels in your eyes. You can talk to your eye doctor for guidance and resources to help you quit smoking.

Visit Your Odessa, TX, Ophthalmologist to Protect Your Eye and Vision Health Today

Regularly visiting your ophthalmologist is vital for protecting your eye health and vision if you are living with diabetes, so contact Southwest Retina Eye Center in Odessa, TX, to get an eye exam and keep your eye and vision health strong. Call us at (432) 333-1324 to schedule an appointment with our ophthalmology team today.