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Diabetic Eye Care
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In photocoagulation, a laser is focused on the retina to seal
leaking blood vessels and reduce abnormal blood vessel growth.
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Diabetes can affect vision by causing cataracts, glaucoma and, most importantly, damage to blood vessels
inside the eye. Diabetic retinopathy is a complication of diabetes that is caused by changes in the blood
vessels of the eye. It is the leading cause of new blindness among adults in the United States. People with
untreated diabetes are said to be 25 times more at risk for blindness than the general population. Early
detection of diabetic retinopathy is the best protection against loss of vision.
People with diabetes should schedule examinations by an ophthalmologistat least once a year. More frequent medical eye examinations may
be necessary once diabetic retinopathy has been diagnosed. With careful monitoring, the ophthalmologist can
begin treatment before sight is affected. Laser and operative surgery are highly effective treatments for
diabetic retinopathy.
For more information check out:
Medem - Healthcare Information by the Nation's Medical Societies.
Nation Eye Institute - Health Information
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