Diabetic eye disease describes conditions that affect patients with diabetes. All types have the potential to cause severe loss of eyesight and complete blindness. Diabetic retinopathy affects the blood vessels found in the retina and is the most common cause of vision loss in diabetic patients. Diabetic macular edema, or DMA, is swelling in the macula and can occur as a result of diabetic retinopathy.
Symptoms of Diabetic Eye Disease
If you or someone close to you is diabetic, you should know how to recognize the signs of eye disease. The early stages may include no symptoms. As the condition worsens, the patient may notice floating spots and blurred vision. An ophthalmologist can diagnose the problem by performing the following tests:
- Visual Acuity Testing – Using an eye chart to measure patient’s ability to see at a distance
- Tonometry – Measures the pressure inside the eye
- Pupil Dilation – Dilation with eye drops to allow a doctor to examine the retina and optic nerve
- Optical Coherence Tomography – Uses light waves to capture images of tissue inside the eye
How to Treat Diabetic Eye Disease
Some cases of vision loss due to diabetic retinopathy are irreversible. The best way to avoid irreparable damage is early detection. Patients can slow progression by maintaining normal blood glucose levels. Patients should also keep blood pressure and cholesterol at healthy levels to lower risk as much as possible.
Diabetic Eye Disease Prevention
The same tactics are also employed to prevent diabetic eye disease altogether. Control blood sugar levels and report any changes in vision as quickly as possible. Patients should schedule regular eye exams to watch for changes that could indicate the beginning of the condition. Contact Grosinger, Spigelmen & Grey Michigan’s Leading Eye Care Physicians for an appointment today.
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