Two Types of Retinopathy

Blindness can result from diabetes mellitus and high blood pressure, both common but preventable.

Diabetes mellitus type 2 and high blood pressure, or hypertension, are risk factors for other conditions later, and yet they are preventable with healthy lifestyle habits. These two conditions are so common that I often repeat myself when spreading the word about taking care of yourself.

Today is no exception. Both diabetes and hypertension can ultimately lead to blindness. Over time, uncontrolled elevations in blood glucose and blood pressure cause changes in the retina, the layer of tissue in the back of the eye that enables vision. Sometimes, patients notice abnormalities in vision, like floaters. Others may not be aware of any retinopathy until they are screened by an opthalmologist.

People may know about worsening vision by reading too closely on a regular basis, but diabetes and hypertension should also be concerns if you value your eyesight. Blindness is one disability resulting from diabetes and hypertension, aside from stroke, kidney failure, and several others. But even blindness alone is life-changing.

Your eyes, and the rest of your body, are precious. Take good care of them now and be healthier later.