Diabetic Eye Exam
SoCal Eye in Long Beach recognizes American Diabetes Association Alert Day. March 23rd. Did you know that an eye exam can detect signs of serious health conditions including Diabetes? According to a 2011 study, eye doctors found symptoms of some diseases such as Diabetes before other health care professionals. This is because people are more likely to have a regular eye exam than an annual physical.
The initial symptoms of Diabetes and Diabetic Retinopathy are very slight or even unnoticeable, it can be detected during an annual comprehensive eye exam. During a diabetic eye exam, your eye doctor dilates your eyes, he or she can check your blood vessels for early signs of damage.
Diabetes: Leading Cause of Blindness
For most of us, our eyesight is not the first thing that comes to mind when we think about diabetes. But actually, diabetes is the number one cause for new cases of blindness among American adults. According to the American Diabetes Association, diabetic retinopathy causes 12,000 to 24,000 new cases of blindness every year. It’s the most common eye complication in diabetic patients, affecting more than 4.4 million Americans age 40 and older. That’s because increased blood sugar in diabetic patients can easily damage the tiny blood vessels in the retina, the part of the eye that captures and sends images to the brain. When these vessels are damaged, it can result in blood and fluid leakage in the retina, closure of the blood vessels or formation of new vessels over the retina’s surface—all of which can inhibit your vision and cause vision loss.
Diabetes Alerts: Changes in Vision.
An eye doctor can then track changes and abnormalities between visits and refer you to your primary care physician if necessary. In addition to getting a dilated eye examination, it’s important to tell your eye doctor if you notice any changes to your vision, including:
- Blurry, double or cloudy vision
- Pain or pressure in one or both eyes
- Trouble with peripheral vision
- Floating or flashing lights
- Dark spots
While there is no cure for diabetes or diabetic retinopathy, proper medication, close monitoring of blood sugar levels, a healthy diet and regular exercise help manage this disease and reduce the likelihood of vision-related complications. For more information on Diabetic Retinopathy.
SoCal Eye Ophthalmology. Diabetic Retinopathy
SoCal Eye Ophthalmology in Long Beach recommends a diabetic eye exam as part of an annual comprehensive eye exam. This exam not only tests your vision acuity but also check for other underlying vision and health conditions such as diabetes. Early detection for many of these conditions is important. SoCal Eye doctors are the Diabetic Retinopathy Specialists in Long Beach. Schedule an Appointment today at LAKEWOOD (562) 531-2020 | LOS ALAMITOS (562) 598-7728 or send us an Online Consultation Request[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
