SEATTLE — Dr. David Buchholz from Premera Blue Cross joined New Day Northwest to discuss Diabetes and how it can affect your eyes. The latest Centers for Disease Control data shows that 1 in 10 Americans has diabetes. It's common particularly among older adults and it can effect your vision.
Diabetes causes problems in the retinas, which is the back of the eye that is responsible for sight. Routine retinal screenings are advised for people with diabetes, because if changes in your vision are recognized early enough, treatment can prevent permanent damage and loss of vision.
It's recommended that adults living with diabetes see an see an optometrist or ophthalmologist once a year for a retinal exam. If you have a health plan, the exam is likely to be covered under your medical benefits. Check with your insurance plan if you have questions about coverage.
This segment is sponsored by Premera Blue Cross. Watch New Day Northwest 11:00 weekdays on KING-TV Ch.5 or streaming live on KING5.com. Connect with New Day via Facebook, Twitter, Instagram.