People with diabetes are much more likely to become blind than those without diabetes. Diabetic eye disease can cause permanent vision loss or reduced vision that cannot be corrected with glasses.
It’s absolutely necessary for anyone with diabetes to have regular eye exams.
“I have diabetes, but I don’t have vision problems. Why should I get an eye exam?”
“My doctor said I have diabetic retinopathy. What can I do?”
These and other questions can be answered by your primary doctor or your eye doctor — not an optometrist, who sells glasses, but a doctor, who specializes in ophthalmology. You may also go to the website of the National Eye Institute for lots of information.
While reliable websites on the internet can help you find solid, accurate information, online is also a place you may find misinformation. Be wary of internet sites that claim to have cures for diabetic eye disease, especially if the website is a .com (private company.)
Searching diabetic eye disease online this week showed sites claiming to be able to cure diabetes, blindness, toenail fungus and other maladies with high-priced products.
If you need help finding affordable eye exams, contact Dallas County Health Navigation at 515-993-3750 or email them at phn@dallascountyiowa.gov.
Another opportunity to note is free Hemoglobin A1C screenings offered at some Hy-Vee stores on specific dates. This screening is a blood test that shows the person’s level of glucose (sugar.) Anyone interested may check the schedule of dates and locations at the Hy-Vee website.
Ann Cochran is the health navigation coordinator in the Dallas County Health Department.
