Introduction to Diabetes and Diabetic Retinopathy
Being diagnosed with diabetes triggers a whirlwind of emotions and concerns about its lifelong impact, not just for you but also for your family. It’s a complex condition requiring serious attention, but talking openly with your doctor, family, and friends is key to understanding and managing it effectively.
While there’s no cure, managing diabetes involves learning to navigate its day-to-day effects by understanding what helps and what doesn’t. Self-help plays a pivotal role in reducing its impact, emphasizing the importance of education and proactive management. Diabetic retinopathy, a complication damaging retina blood vessels, can cause vision issues, but early detection, ongoing treatment, and specialized services can empower individuals to lead fulfilling lives despite these challenges.
Resources
New to diabetes and vision loss? Be sure to read our A Guide for Managing Diabetes with Vision Loss – ConnectCenter (aphconnectcenter.org and Tips for Managing Diabetes with Blindness/Low Vision – ConnectCenter (aphconnectcenter.org)
You may also want to check out our Getting Started Kit for help with living with blindness or low vision.