EYE CARE Q: What is the leading cause of blindness in the U.S.? A: According to the CDC, the leading cause of blindness in American adults is diabetic retinopathy. Diabetic retinopathy is damage to the retina (the tissue in the back of the eye that sees) from diabetes. Dr. Kynndyl Giannonatti Optometrist It occurs most often in people who have uncontrolled diabetes. When blood sugars are poorly controlled, the blood vessels in the body get damaged. The damage to the blood vessels in the back of the eye is what leads to vision loss. New blood vessel growth due to oxygen deprivation and fluid build up in the macula are the most detrimental to vision. This is why it's extremely important for those with diabetes to get a yearly eye exam, even if you haven't had any changes in vision. Catching diabetic retinopathy early, before it affects vision is key. The best way to decrease the risk of vision loss from diabetes is to maintain good control of blood sugar and blood pressure with your primary care doctor through regular appointments. If you are diabetic and have not had your annual eye exam, call your doctor or schedule an appointment with our office. WHELAN Eye Care 1900 DIVISION ST. W, BEMIDJI, MN (218) 759-1430 WHELANEYECARE.COM EYE CARE Q: What is the leading cause of blindness in the U.S.? A: According to the CDC, the leading cause of blindness in American adults is diabetic retinopathy. Diabetic retinopathy is damage to the retina (the tissue in the back of the eye that sees) from diabetes. Dr. Kynndyl Giannonatti Optometrist It occurs most often in people who have uncontrolled diabetes. When blood sugars are poorly controlled, the blood vessels in the body get damaged. The damage to the blood vessels in the back of the eye is what leads to vision loss. New blood vessel growth due to oxygen deprivation and fluid build up in the macula are the most detrimental to vision. This is why it's extremely important for those with diabetes to get a yearly eye exam, even if you haven't had any changes in vision. Catching diabetic retinopathy early, before it affects vision is key. The best way to decrease the risk of vision loss from diabetes is to maintain good control of blood sugar and blood pressure with your primary care doctor through regular appointments. If you are diabetic and have not had your annual eye exam, call your doctor or schedule an appointment with our office. WHELAN Eye Care 1900 DIVISION ST. W, BEMIDJI, MN (218) 759-1430 WHELANEYECARE.COM