Caring for Your Eyes When You Have Diabetes
October 29, 2025
Your eyes are one of the most important things to protect when you’re living with diabetes.
Diabetes can damage the tiny blood vessels in the eyes, leading to a condition called diabetic retinopathy—and even blindness. The good news is that with awareness, monitoring, and management, vision loss is often preventable.
What can you do to protect your vision?
- Get a dilated eye exam once a year.
These exams allow your eye doctor to detect early signs of damage—even before symptoms appear.
- Keep your blood sugars well controlled.
Stable glucose levels reduce the strain on your eyes and lower your risk of complications.
- Manage your blood pressure.
High blood pressure can also damage the small vessels in your eyes, compounding your risk.
- Know the warning signs.
Blurred vision, dark spots, or sudden vision loss should be addressed immediately.
At Jefferson County Health Center, our Diabetes Education Program—led by Amy Martin, RN, CDCES—offers education and resources to help you manage diabetes and support your overall health. The program is certified by the American Diabetes Association and the State of Iowa, and most insurance plans cover the service.
To schedule an appointment, call the JCHC Clinics at 641-472-4156.
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