Diabetic Eye Disease: How Ophthalmologists Help Protect Your Vision

Living with diabetes requires constant management and attention. Diabetic eye disease encompasses a group of vision-threatening conditions that can develop in individuals with diabetes, such as diabetic retinopathy, diabetic macular edema, cataracts, and glaucoma. Left untreated, these conditions can lead to permanent vision loss. Ophthalmologists play a critical role in detecting, managing, and treating these conditions to help protect and preserve your vision.

Understanding Diabetic Eye Disease

The most common form of diabetic eye disease is diabetic retinopathy, which occurs when high blood sugar levels damage the blood vessels in the retina. In its early stages, diabetic retinopathy may not cause noticeable symptoms, making regular eye exams essential for early detection. As the disease progresses, symptoms may include blurry vision, dark spots, or even sudden vision loss.

Other related conditions include:

• Diabetic macular edema (DME): Swelling in the macula caused by fluid leaking from retinal blood vessels.
• Cataracts: People with diabetes are more likely to develop cataracts at an earlier age.
• Glaucoma: Diabetes increases the risk of developing glaucoma, a condition characterized by increased pressure in the eye that can damage the optic nerve.

At Maple Eye and Laser Center, our ophthalmologists use advanced diagnostic tools and treatments to manage diabetic eye disease and help protect your vision.

Comprehensive Eye Exams

Routine, dilated eye exams are the first line of defense. These exams allow ophthalmologists to view the back of the eye and detect early signs of diabetic retinopathy or other complications before symptoms appear.

Retinal Imaging and OCT Scans

Specialized imaging techniques like optical coherence tomography (OCT) and fundus photography help ophthalmologists evaluate the retina and monitor changes over time. These technologies provide detailed cross-sectional images that can reveal swelling, leakage, or abnormal blood vessels.

Laser Treatments and Injections

If diabetic retinopathy or macular edema is detected, ophthalmologists may recommend laser therapy to seal leaking blood vessels or injections of anti-VEGF medication to reduce swelling and inhibit abnormal blood vessel growth.

Personalized Treatment Plans

Every patient’s situation is unique. Our ophthalmologists create personalized treatment and monitoring plans tailored to your health, lifestyle, and stage of diabetic eye disease. This collaborative approach ensures that your care evolves with your needs.

Protecting Your Vision with a Trusted Eye Care Team

Diabetic eye disease can have a serious impact on your vision, but with early detection, proactive management, and advanced treatment options, vision loss can often be prevented. At Maple Eye and Laser Center, our team is committed to helping individuals with diabetes maintain healthy vision and improve their quality of life through expert care.

If you have diabetes, schedule a comprehensive eye exam with Maple Eye and Laser Center and take an important step in protecting your vision. Visit our office White Plains or Manhattan, New York, or call (914) 948-5157 to book an appointment today.