Diabetic Retinopathy
by Dave Foreman
Diabetic retinopathy is the third leading
cause of blindness in people over the age
of 20, and eventually can impact an estimated
two of three diabetics. Diabetic retinopathy
is a disease of the retina often caused as a
complication from having diabetes. When blood
vessels in the retina are damaged, they may leak
fluid or blood, and grow fragile, brush-like
branches and scar tissue. This will then cause
blurred or distorted vision.
What Are The Symptoms?
Sad to say but you may have this condition for a
long time without even knowing it. Symptoms of
diabetic retinopathy and its complications may
include:
- Blurred or distorted vision or
difficulty reading.
- Floaters or flashes of light in your
field of vision.
- Partial or total loss of vision or a shadow
or veil across your field of vision.
- Pain in the eye.
What Increases Your Risk?
Your risk of developing diabetic retinopathy
depends largely on two factors: how long you
have had diabetes and what type of diabetes you
have. The longer you have diabetes, the more
likely you are to develop diabetic retinopathy. In
addition, people with type 1 diabetes are more
likely to develop diabetic retinopathy than people
with type 2 diabetes. The following are other
known risk factors for developing this form of
retinopathy:
- A family history of diabetic retinopathy
- Kidney disease (nephropathy)
- Pregnancy
- Consistently high blood sugar
- High blood pressure
- Delayed diagnosis and treatment
- High cholesterol
- Smoking
Obviously addressing your diabetes is a great
way to address "prevention"and "treatment"of
this condition. Following my previous article on
diabetes recommendations would be a great
start. As for working specifically on the eye health
part of this, a diet high in natural antioxidants is
the best start. Increase your consumption of
berries. Pick one. Raspberry, blueberry, black etc.
will all help.
Along the same line as berries consumption
(nature's antioxidants), a supplement program
high in antioxidants is also recommended.The
following are some of the more popular eye
health antioxidant supplements:
- Quercetin
- Alpha Lipoic Acid
- OPCs
- E, C, Selenium
- Bilberry
- Ginkgo Biloba
- Vinpocetine
As with all of my past recommendations try to
find a nutritional supplement that takes the
shotgun approach. Synergy is great in all aspects
of health. Find an eye supplement designed to
provide high antioxidant levels to the eye. M.D.
Select Advanced Ocular Support, Nature's Way
Vision With Lutein & Bilberry, Natural Care
Optiall, Enzymatic Therapy Doctor's Choice Eye
Formula, and Nordic Naturals Eye Synergy are
great examples of eye health support products.
Please consult with your health care provider
and store associate for which formula fits your
personal needs.
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