Diabetes’ Effects on the Eyes
Approximately 1 in 4 working-age adults, from their early 20s to early 60s, unknowingly have Type 2 diabetes. Our ophthalmologist frequently identifies symptoms like blurred vision and eye floaters, leading to referrals for diabetes testing.
Type 2 diabetes significantly increases the risk for diabetic eye diseases, including conditions like diabetic retinopathy and diabetic macular edema (DME About one third of the working-age patients which examined show signs of diabetic eye damage, with diabetic retinopathy being a prevalent cause of blindness in this group. Several eye conditions can arise from diabetes:
Diabetic Retinopathy: High blood sugar levels may harm the retina’s blood vessels, which can lead to blurred vision, floaters, dark spots, eye pain, and difficulty seeing at night. Symptoms may not appear in the early stages, but without treatment, this condition can cause blindness. Treatment options include eye surgery, laser surgery, and injections.
Macular Edema (DME): This condition involves fluid accumulation in the macula, leading to blurred or distorted vision and difficulties with focusing.
Glaucoma: Diabetes can cause neovascular glaucoma, where new blood vessels grow on the iris, increasing eye pressure.
Cataracts: Diabetics may develop cataracts earlier and more rapidly due to high blood sugar levels.
Dry Eye: Those with diabetes are twice as likely to suffer from dry eyes, which can be managed with eye drops or punctal plugs.
Regular eye examinations are vital for early detection of these issues when they are more manageable and treatment can be most effective, potentially preserving vision. Opticare healthcare utilizes state-of-the-art equipment to perform thorough eye screenings, which include detailed examinations of the retina and photographic imaging. Based on these results, you might need more frequent monitoring or specific interventions. Early detection and prompt treatment are essential, and with advanced technology, the diagnostic and treatment processes are expedited and refined, facilitating effective solutions based on eye tests and medical assessments.