Associates in Eyecare Offers Monitoring of Diabetic Retinopathy

Individuals with diabetes must be particularly vigilant about eye problems, because of the effects of excessive amounts of glucose in their bloodstreams. At Associates in Eyecare in the DC area, we provide regular examinations for vision and for changes in eye structure that can indicate damage from high blood glucose associated with diabetic conditions.

What Is Diabetic Retinopathy?

Diabetic retinopathy is a term used to describe a number of problems that develop in eye structures due to the effects of diabetes. It can occur in individuals with either type-1 or type-2 diabetes. The high levels of glucose in the bloodstream cause deterioration in the tiny blood vessels in the eyes. As a result, eye structures are damaged and vision loss occurs.

Conditions Caused by Diabetic Retinopathy

In the early stages of diabetic eye disease, very small blood vessels begin to leak, causing swelling in the retina. This is called non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy, and it is a common problem in individuals with uncontrolled diabetes. Proliferative diabetic retinopathy is a more advanced condition, in which new blood vessels begin to grow and bleed into the vitreous liquid of the eye. The resulting scar tissue can cause the retina to detach from the eye and can cause loss of vision. Your eye doctor will carefully monitor your eyes for any signs of these problems.

Managing The Effects of Diabetic Retinopathy

If you have diabetes, your primary care physician will recommend regular eye exams to monitor your eyes for any changes that occur in the retina of the eye because of the high blood glucose levels. Your eye doctor will provide a comprehensive examination, complete with dilation that allows the viewing of the internal structures of the eye. In this way, the optometrist can carefully examine blood vessels to note abnormalities that could indicate the early stages of a problem. You can then receive treatment to avoid damage that could cause vision loss.

Make Associates in Eyecare Your Optometrist for Diabetic Retinopathy Care!

The optometrists at Associates in Eyecare use their extensive training and experience to ensure their patients in the Washington, D.C. and northern Virginia areas maintain clear vision and healthy eyes with a variety of optometry services. From eyeglasses to contact lenses to the management of eye diseases, you can rely on Associates in Eyecare for reliable, professional care. Call Associates in Eyecare at one of our ten convenient locations in the DC/Virginia area for an appointment to have your eyes checked regularly, to prevent the effects of diabetes on your eye health.