--  Actions to Preserve Your Vision

What can you do to preserve your vision? While there is no foolproof system to prevent retinopathy, whether you have type 1 or type 2 diabetes, the important things to do are:

• Keep your A1C level below 7%.

• Keep your blood pressure at or below 130/80 mm Hg.

• If you smoke—stop.

• Have at least annual, complete dilated eye examinations by an eye doctor experienced in diagnosing and managing diabetic eye disease.

• If there is a problem, seek early treatment. Remember that appropriate laser treatment and surgery can significantly reduce the risk of vision loss and blindness from diabetes.

• Control other associated risk factors for onset or progression of retinopathy, including kidney disease, anemia, high cholesterol, and abdominal obesity.