Two Common Diseases That Impact Vision

Often, vision problems are easy to treat with a routine eye exam and a prescription for corrective lenses. Some situations, however, require a more in-depth approach. This is especially true when a more serious medical condition is the root of the issue and vision loss is only a symptom. This is why it’s so important to make and keep annual eye appointments. Your eye doctor in Champaign, IL, may be the first medical professional to detect diseases that could impact your vision, including the two most common.

Diabetic Retinopathy

Diabetic retinopathy is a side-effect of uncontrolled diabetes. It can happen when elevated levels of sugar in your blood damage the blood vessels in your eyes. If gone undetected and left untreated, diabetic retinopathy can lead to glaucoma and total vision loss. Advanced symptoms include:

• Streaks or floaters in your field of vision
• Blurred vision
• Trouble seeing close-up or far away

If you’ve recently been diagnosed with diabetes, or if this disease runs in your family, it’s time to see your vision specialist. Schedule an appointment right away.

Chronic Hypertension

You may recognize chronic hypertension by its more common name — uncontrolled high blood pressure. This disease stresses your blood vessels and may lead to damage in the tiny vessels that supply blood to your eyes. When left untreated, chronic hypertension may cause blood vessels to leak blood or fluid to collect beneath the retina. It may also cause nerve damage, which can lead to total vision loss.

Effective management is the best way to treat chronic hypertension. This means partnering with your primary care physician and your eye doctor to learn how best to control your disease. Simple lifestyle changes may be enough to manage the condition and to prevent further damage to your eyes.

For help with diseases that affect the eyes in Champaign, IL, contact Champaign Eye Professionals to talk with one of our friendly and experienced representatives today.