Diabetic Retinopathy Services from Your Optometrist in Woodstock, ON
Diabetic retinopathy, also called diabetic eye disease, is a common disorder that can result in visual impairment, according to our Woodstock optometrist. The longer a patient has diabetes, the greater the chances that this condition will develop. Because so many diabetics are unaware of the problem until it reaches a severe stage, regular vision exams at our Oxford Optometry practice are crucial for early diagnosis and treatment.
Overview of this Disorder
Our eye doctor notes that over time, uncontrolled diabetes of either type can damage blood vessels in the retina of the eye. Retinopathy occurs when the eye leaks blood and other fluids, causing swelling. The result is a cloudy or blurry vision that usually occurs in both eyes. If there is no treatment for this condition, blindness could result.
Many individuals are asymptomatic during the early stages of diabetic retinopathy. However, once symptoms appear, these are the most common ones our patients report:
- Blurred vision
- Inability to see colors
- Seeing specks, floaters, or spots
- Holes of black spots in the visual field
- Difficulty seeing at night
Treatment Options for Diabetic Retinopathy
The only way to diagnose diabetic retinopathy is via a vision exam from an eye doctor. One important component of a treatment plan is acceptably controlling the patient’s blood sugar levels.
During a comprehensive vision exam, our doctor evaluates the patient’s medical history, measures visual acuity, refracts the eyes, and measures internal eye pressure. This visit includes a number of tests to evaluate the retina and other structures in each eye and look for leaking blood vessels and damaged nerve tissue.
In the early stages, monitoring is often the primary treatment. This requires patients to undergo regular eye exams and periodic refractions to detect any changes in prescriptions to correct vision. Self-help measures include taking any medication to control blood sugar levels and blood pressure regularly and exactly as directed.
Beyond monitoring, our practice determines the appropriate treatment based on the severity of the condition. Among the effective treatment options available are vitrectomy, injections of corticosteroids, and laser surgery. The objective of any treatment for retinopathy is always to halt the progression of this disorder or to slow it down.
Schedule an Appointment with Our Woodstock Optometrist
Our Oxford Optometry staff provides a range of both emergency and non-emergency optometric services. Whether you require diagnosis and treatment of an eye disease or corrective lenses, we are here to help. Be sure to take a moment to call us today at 519-421-3303 to schedule an appointment with our Woodstock optometrist and help protect your vision.