Diabetic Eye Care refers to the management and treatment of eye conditions resulting from diabetes. Diabetes can lead to various eye complications that may affect vision and overall eye health.
| Diabetes Eye Care | Details |
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Causes |
Diabetic Retinopathy: Damage to the blood vessels in the retina Diabetic Macular Edema (DME): Swelling in the macula, the central part of the retina. Glaucoma: Increased pressure in the eye leading to damage of the optic nerve. Cataracts: Clouding of the eye’s lens, which can progress faster in people with diabetes. |
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Symptoms
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Blurry Vision: Vision may become blurred or fluctuating Floaters: Dark spots or strings in vision Flashes of Light: Seeing flashes or light bursts in the peripheral vision Vision Loss: Gradual or sudden loss of vision, especially if untreated Difficulty Seeing at Night: Problems with vision in low-light conditions. |
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Treatment |
Blood Sugar Control
Regular Eye Exams Laser Therapy: For diabetic retinopathy or DME, laser treatments can help reduce swelling and prevent further damage Medication: Anti-VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) injections or steroid injections to reduce swelling and manage macular edema Surgery: In severe cases, surgical options like vitrectomy may be needed to address retinal damage or bleeding Glaucoma Treatment: Includes eye drops, oral medications, or surgery to manage intraocular pressure Cataract Surgery: To remove and replace the cloudy lens with an artificial one if cataracts develop |
What is Diabetic Retinopathy Screening?
Diabetic retinopathy screening is a diagnostic process used to identify retinal damage or abnormalities that can occur in individuals with diabetes. Early detection through regular screening is essential for preventing vision loss and managing the condition effectively.
Frequency of Screening
• Type 1 Diabetes: Screening should begin within 5 years of diagnosis and be done annually.
• Type 2 Diabetes: Screening should start at the time of diagnosis and be done annually or as recommended by an eye care professional.
• Pregnant Women with Diabetes: More frequent screenings may be necessary due to the increased risk of diabetic retinopathy during pregnancy.
Importance of Regular Screening
Regular screening is essential for individuals with diabetes to detect any retinal changes early, allowing for timely intervention and treatment. This proactive approach helps to manage the condition effectively and prevent severe complications, including vision loss.