Diabetic Eye Care

If you are diabetic, your body does not use or store sugar properly. High blood sugar levels can damage the delicate blood vessels in the retina (the nerve layer in the back of the eye). This damage is known as diabetic retinopathy and is why everyone with diabetes should get a comprehensive dilated eye exam at least once a year.

What is Diabetic Retinopathy?

The most common diabetic eye disease and a leading cause of blindness in American adults. It is caused by changes in the blood vessels of the retina. If you have diabetic retinopathy, at first you may not notice changes to your vision. But over time, it can get worse and cause vision loss. Diabetic retinopathy usually affects both eyes.

Who's at Risk?

Anyone with diabetes is at risk. The longer someone has diabetes, the more likely they will get diabetic retinopathy. Between 40 to 45 percent of Americans diagnosed with diabetes have some stage of diabetic retinopathy.
Your doctor can recommend treatment to help prevent its progression.

How is it Diagnosed?

An exam is the best way to detect early changes. Our doctors can diagnose diabetic retinopathy before you are aware of any vision problems. During the exam, your eyes are dilated and examined with special equipment and lenses. Special tests may be ordered if changes are suspected or present. In some cases, you may be asked to see a specialist in diabetic retinopathy.

Treatment Options

The best treatment is to prevent the development of retinopathy. Strict blood sugar control significantly reduces the long-term risk of vision loss from diabetes. Annual dilated examination with an ophthalmologist is an important step in the over-all management of diabetes and the prevention of visual complications. More frequent visits may be necessary if complications develop.

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