Diabetic
eye disease and eye problems are well known by most patients because their
primary care physician and eye doctor tell them repeated about the need to for
tight blood sugar control in order to prevent eye problems. But most patients
with diabetes are unaware of some unexpected health problems that can be
related to diabetes and can be easily overlooked.
Cognitive, Memory &
Brain Function Decline
It
is not uncommon for Type 2 Diabetics to experience diminished ability in memory
recall and focus, as well as organizing, planning and completing tasks.
Research shows that people with diabetes have abnormal blood flow to the brain,
which affects function and activity. This explains why, with age, diabetics may
experience slower mental performance. This is another reason why managing your
diabetes requires a proactive effort to
carefully follow your doctor’s instructions for proper diet, exercise,
medications, lifestyle and glucose levels, as well as scheduling regular follow
up visits and keeping all appointments.
Hearing Loss
Did
you know that diabetics are twice as likely to experience hearing loss as they
age? The National Institutes of Health also reports that 30 percent of
pre-diabetics, with higher-than-normal glucose levels, can experience hearing
loss. The disease can affect the small blood vessels in the inner ear, causing
impairment. Protect hearing by regularly monitoring blood sugar levels.
Gum & Periodontal
Disease
Did
you know that diabetics are more prone to developing periodontal disease, an
infection of the gums that can lead to tooth loss? A study of 9,000 people at
the Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health discovered that
individuals with higher levels of periodontal disease were more likely to
become diabetic within the next two decades, as compared to those without the
disease. Periodontal disease can increase blood sugar, making it even more
difficult to control diabetes. Be proactive and prevent oral health and gum
problems by brushing twice daily, flossing once each day and using an
antiseptic mouthwash daily.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea
About
50 percent of diabetics experience obstructive sleep apnea. People who are
obese and have a collar size of more than 17 for men or 16 for women are
more likely to suffer from apnea when they sleep. Researchers reporting in American Journal of Respiratory and
Critical Care Medicine noted that people with severe cases of obstructive
sleep apnea may have a 30 percent higher risk for developing diabetes. OSA is
an increases risk factor for many eye problems including glaucoma.
While
these are some unexpected diabetic health problems, the avoidance and
management of diabetic retinopathy is critical. The best way to prevent vision
loss from diabetic retinopathy is through early detection, diagnosis and
treatment with regular eye exams. If you or someone you know is diabetic and needs an diabetic
eye exam, please call Alabama
Eye & Cataract Center in Birmingham at 205-930-0930, visit Alabama Eye &
Cataract Center,
Google+ or www.facebook.com/alabamaeyeandcataractcenter.
