Diabetes can cause significant damage to the eyes. It can harm the tiny blood vessels in the eye’s retina, known as Diabetic Retinopathy. Diabetes can also increase the risk of developing Cataracts, Glaucoma, and other serious eye issues as well. Many people don’t even realize their eyes have a problem until the damage is done. However, by practicing good diabetic eye care, you can detect these types of issues early on and take the proper course of action. Dr. David O’Day, M.D. and his team of experts can help prevent further damage before it’s too late.
Diabetic Eye Examination
If you’re Diabetic, you should make it a point without fail to get your eyes examined by an eye care professional at Charleston Cornea & Refractive Surgery. It’s important to have your eyes checked regularly to ensure they remain healthy, especially if you’re diabetic. Depending on your Diabetes and overall health, Dr. O’Day may require you to come in more than just once a year.
During a Diabetic eye exam, the eyes will be dilated to examine the retina for any signs of disease. Any changes in the retina, including cotton-wool spots, exudates, and blood spots are all associated to the vascular effects of the disease and are called Asnonproliferative Diabetic Retinopathy. The macula will additionally be thoroughly examined as well to determine if Diabetic Macular Edema is present which may possibly be causing a decrease in vision.
Prevention
By far, the most preventative measure you can take concerning Diabetic eye care is to continue to visit Dr. O’Day on a regular basis. Individuals with adult onset diabetes should ideally be examined following their diagnosis, and then each year. In addition to following your doctor’s rules, eating a well-balanced diet, and exercising every day, it is crucial that you do the following:
- Do not smoke
- Do not drink alcohol
- Control blood sugar levels – eat well and exercise
- Monitor and control your blood pressure
If any of the following occur, you should contact Charleston Cornea & Refractive surgery immediately:
- You are seeing two of everything (double vision)
- You have a hard time seeing in dim light
- You feel pain in one or both eyes
- You are seeing shadows
- Your peripheral vision is declining
- You are developing blind spots
- You see small spots floating across your eyes
- You are experiencing frequent headaches, some are severe
- Your vision is blurry or hazy and you’re having difficulty focusing
No matter what your vision-related issues are, it is crucial to have a skilled, caring, and trusted health care provider. If you live in Mount Pleasant, North Charleston, and Myrtle Beach SC or surrounding areas, consider visiting Charleston Cornea & Refractive Surgery for help with a variety of vision-related issues including Diabetic eye care. Call us at (843) 856-5275 for more information.