Guest Columnist
by Steven Thom, M.D.
MeritCare Ophthalmologist
Diabetes and your eyes
If you have diabetes, you probably know you're at increased risk for eye problems.
A disease that affects 18 million Americans, diabetes can result in damage to the eyes, nervous system, heart, kidneys and other organs. The damage comes from high levels of blood sugar circulating around the body, wreaking havoc with blood vessels, including those in the eyes.
A closer look: diabetic retinopathy
People with diabetes are at higher risk for several eye problems including
cataracts at a younger age and
glaucoma. One of the most common problems that can develop is diabetic retinopathy – a condition in which the blood vessels of the retina become damaged. (The retina is the area of light-sensitive nerve tissue that lines the back of the eye.)
If not diagnosed and treated promptly and appropriately, diabetic retinopathy can diminish vision and in some cases cause blindness. Diabetic retinopathy ranks as the leading cause of new cases of blindness among working age people in the United States.
What is the treatment? Today's treatment of choice is retinal laser photocoagulation, a painless in-office procedure that seals off leaking blood vessels and halts the growth of abnormal vessels. At MeritCare Eye Clinic and Optical, ophthalmologists (medical doctors who can perform eye surgery, treat glaucoma and cataracts and prescribe medication) perform this procedure on a routine basis and have seen considerable success. When performed promptly, photocoagulation helps reduce the risk of severe vision loss by up to 90 percent.
Recommended eye care if you have diabetes
In its early stages, diabetic retinopathy often has no obvious symptoms, underscoring the need for regular exams with your eye doctor. Eye-care recommendations for people with diabetes include:
- On an annual basis, undergo a complete dilated eye exam with your eye doctor. (During a dilated eye exam, your doctor uses eye drops to widen your pupil, making it easier to examine your retina.)
- Seek eye care immediately if you experience the onset of blurred vision or floaters.
- If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, more frequent eye exams are recommended. Diabetic retinopathy can worsen more rapidly during pregnancy.
Tips for good self care
Good self care can go far in slowing the development of eye problems as well as other complications of diabetes. This includes:
- Keeping your blood sugar under control.
- Monitoring and controlling your blood pressure.
- Maintaining a healthy diet.
- Exercising regularly.
Learn more about diabetic retinoplasty on meritcare.com. To schedule an appointment, please call (701) 234-2305, (701) 234-3640 or (800) 437-4010.
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