Diabetes can significantly increase your chances of developing certain eye conditions and even lead to vision loss. The longer you have had diabetes, as well as whether you have Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes, can also further increase your chances of developing serious, vision-threatening diseases and conditions.
Early detection is vital for diagnosing serious eye diseases and safeguarding your vision. Depending on the condition, your optometrist can help you slow or even halt vision loss.
One of the most serious conditions patients with diabetes may develop is diabetic retinopathy. This disease is caused by high blood sugar levels and hypertension, both of which are symptoms of diabetes.
High blood sugar levels can damage the delicate blood vessels in the eyes, causing them to swell or leak. The damaged blood vessels may impair vision by allowing blood to leak into the vitreous (or gel-like interior) of the eye and can increase your chances of experiencing a retinal detachment.
Diabetic retinopathy has two stages:
In its early stages, diabetic retinopathy rarely exhibits symptoms. The damage is so gradual it typically goes unnoticed. However, as the disease progresses, you may develop floaters, dark spots, and blurry vision. You may also have trouble seeing clearly at night. If you begin to notice any of these symptoms, please book an appointment as soon as possible.
We pride ourselves in providing thorough testing so we can help you make appropriate decisions related to your eye health. During a diabetic eye exam, we use a few different methods of testing to look for signs of eye diseases and other conditions.
OCT takes cross-sectional pictures of your retina using non-invasive light. This allows us to see the layers within your retina and measure their thickness. Corneal thickness measurements can be used to pinpoint signs of swelling and make inferences about your eye health.
Fundus photography involves taking pictures of your eyes using a specialized microscope and attached camera. Once your pupil has been dilated, the camera takes a picture of the back of your eyes (the fundus).
The photo will provide your optometrist with a clear view of your retina, blood vessels, and optic nerve, and any associated abnormalities. We’ll also be able to see drusen (fatty proteins), abnormal bleeding, or any scar tissue that could be signs of trouble.
Based on your results from our assessments and subsequent diagnosis, we can monitor your eyes or begin managing or treating your condition to slow its progression. Depending on the stage you’re in, the treatment and management options available to you may vary.
If your diabetic retinopathy is diagnosed in its early stages, you may not require treatment. However, we will recommend you visit your endocrinologist (diabetes specialist) to learn what steps you can take to better manage your diabetes, as controlling your blood sugar can help slow the progression of diabetic retinopathy.
For advanced stages, you may need surgical treatment. We’ll discuss your options with you after examining your eyes and advise you on your next steps.
We are located at 1114 Highway 315 Boulevard. We are in plaza 315 just south of the Mohegan Sun Casino adjacent the Woodlands Inn. If you have trouble finding us, please give us a call at 570-208-1111. For your convenience, ample parking is available.
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