High blood sugar, caused by diabetes, can affect the blood vessels in the retina if not controlled. This, in turn, causes diabetic retinopathy, which worsens with time if not properly managed.
If you have diabetes, it's essential to receive eye examinations by an eye doctor regularly since the condition puts you at risk of developing problems like diabetic retinopathy. When you come to Palmer Vision Clinic, we conduct a comprehensive assessment of your eyes to identify any signs of diabetic retinopathy. We can develop an effective plan and offer advice to manage your diabetic retinopathy and maintain optimal vision. We serve the residents of Palmer and Anchorage.
What Is Diabetic Retinopathy?
Diabetic retinopathy is a diabetes complication that causes the damage of blood vessels in the retina. People suffering from either type 1 or 2 diabetes are at risk of developing this condition, especially if there is no proper blood sugar control. At first, diabetes retinopathy does not represent any symptoms and only does so during the later stages, putting a person at risk of developing vision loss.
Symptoms of Diabetic Retinopathy
Some of the most common symptoms of diabetic retinopathy include:
- Eye pain
- Blurred vision
- Vision floaters
- Eye redness
- Sudden vision loss
Is It Possible to Reduce the Risk of Diabetic Retinopathy?
It is possible to reduce the risk of developing diabetic retinopathy by practicing these tips:
- Take the diabetes medication as prescribed by your doctor
- Seek medical help as soon as you notice any problem with your vision
- Maintain a balanced diet and exercise regimen
- Quit smoking
- Keep cholesterol and blood pressure in control
Management and Treatment
If you have diabetes, it's crucial to visit our office for frequent eye exams. If not treated, this condition can cause other complications such as retinal detachment, glaucoma, vitreous hemorrhage, and vision loss. Our optometrist can identify this disease early on and develop a management plan to prevent its progression. Medications may be prescribed to stop the growth of new blood vessels, decrease fluid buildup, or relieve other symptoms. If surgery is necessary, our team will recommend an experienced ophthalmologist for the procedure and provide pre and post-op care.
Contact Us for Quality Eye Care from Our Optometrist in Palmer or Anchorage
At Palmer Vision Clinic, we understand how important it is to maintain proper eye care, especially when you have conditions like diabetes. We offer examination and management services in a comfortable and safe environment for all our patients. Our team is highly experienced and committed to ensuring you maintain your vision and eliminate the risk of developing vision loss or other associated complications. Call our Palmer clinic at (907) 745-4373 or our Anchorage clinic at (907) 562-2020 to learn more about how we can help.