Diabetes is one of the most common chronic conditions in the United States. Nearly 35 million Americans suffer from diabetes and nearly 90 million are experiencing pre-diabetes. This condition can also have a huge impact on your vision. If you or a loved one has diabetes, you will want to speak with an optometrist about diabetic retinopathy. Contact Gregg Family Eye Care in Secane to schedule an eye exam with Dr. Gregg.
What To Expect
At first, you may experience no symptoms of diabetic retinopathy or the symptoms might be quite mild. However, without proper treatment, diabetic retinopathy can worsen quickly causing you to lose your vision entirely. We will cover the common symptoms of diabetic retinopathy so you know what to watch out for. Then we will take a look at prevention and treatment. As always, if you have any questions about this condition or any eye health issue, contact our optometrist.
Diabetic Retinopathy: Symptoms and Warning Signs
The symptoms of diabetic retinopathy can be a bit difficult to detect because they can also be associated with other conditions or no condition at all. For example, floaters are common among people suffering from diabetic retinopathy. Unfortunately, you may also suffer floaters that aren’t linked to diabetic retinopathy, and thus you may disregard them.
Blurred vision is another common problem for people suffering from diabetic retinopathy. If you notice your vision suddenly becomes blurry, it is time to consult with an eye doctor. Even if diabetic retinopathy isn’t the cause, your blurred vision should be addressed right away.
You may also suffer vision loss or notice empty areas in your vision. Diabetic retinopathy is caused by excessive blood sugar levels. The tiny blood vessels in your eyes may become clogged with sugar, preventing essential nutrients and oxygen from getting to the cells in your eyes. If these cells die or are damaged, it could greatly reduce your vision.
Preventing and Treating Diabetic Retinopathy
When it comes to preventing and treating diabetic retinopathy, properly managing your diabetes is key. By closely monitoring and adjusting your blood sugar levels with insulin and enjoying a healthy diet, you can avoid many of the complications associated with diabetes. Certain habits can increase the risk of diabetes and diabetes-related complications, including diabetic retinopathy. If you are diabetic and smoking, for example, it is time to quit. Diet changes can also make it easier to maintain healthy blood sugar levels.
Contact Our Optometrist in Secane, PA
If you live in or around Secane and have diabetes, contact Dr. Gregg at Gregg Family Eye Care to schedule an eye exam. Call our team today at 610-543-1219 or reach us through our website by using our online contact form.