Diabetes can have severe consequences. In tonight's Medical Minute-- we learn practical tips on how to avoid or lessen these complications.

As an osteopathic family doctor with a busy practice, I have treated many patients who suffer from diabetes. Diabetes affects almost 24 million people in the United States. Type 2 diabetes is the most common form.

One of the serious complications of type 2 diabetes is blindness and is in fact the number one cause of blindness. If you have type 2 diabetes, please follow these prevention tips to avoid or lessen diabetic eye disease: Control your blood sugar and blood pressure. And, reduce high cholesterol. Making changes in your diet and taking prescription medications can help all three of these conditions.

Have your eyes examined by an eye doctor every year. Don't smoke. And, get adequate exercise. If you are not sure how much exercise is enough, ask your doctor. Please visit your eye doctor if you experience:
Vision change, Eye pain. Or, loss of vision

For this week’s Medical Minute, I’m Dr. Joe Williams.