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Diabetic retinopathy is the name of the disease that affects retinal blood vessels in patients with diabetes. It is a leading cause of blindness in the United States. Diabetic patients are also more likely to get early cataracts and glaucoma. The key to preventing vision loss in diabetic patients’ eyes is early diagnosis and management of the disease. At Vista Eye Care, our eye doctors recommend yearly dilated eye exams to look for early signs of diabetic eye disease. According to the National Eye Institute, “between 40 to 45 percent of Americans diagnosed with diabetes have some stage of diabetic retinopathy.”

When our optometrists dilate eyes, what they are doing is moving the iris out of the way, enlarging the pupil and making it easier to view the retina at the back of the eye. Diabetic retinopathy can take many forms and can affect patients with either type 1 or type 2 diabetes. Blood vessels can break apart, leaking blood onto the retina. Fluid can also build up under the macula, which is the region of the retina that is most sensitive to fine detail. Both of these scenarios can lead to permanent damage and vision loss.

While diabetes can cause blindness, often times in its earliest stages diabetic retinopathy might have no symptoms. If diabetic retinopathy is diagnosed, there are many treatment options that can help prevent further vision loss. The American Optometric Association points out that “early detection and treatment can limit the potential for significant vision loss from diabetic retinopathy. “ Regular eye care is crucial for diabetic patients. Using the latest technology, our doctors take digital images of the retinas, and write a report to your endocrinologist or primary care physician. We view diabetic management as a team effort, and we work hard to communicate our findings to your other healthcare professionals.

Please call our office at (303) 450-2020 to schedule your annual eye and vision exam.

Ready to schedule your annual eye check-up?

Ready to schedule your annual eye check-up?