Diabetes Vision Care Specialist

What is diabetes vision care?

When you have type 1 or type 2 diabetes, you’re at risk for diabetic eye disease, a group of conditions that may occur when excess blood sugar causes damage to the blood vessels in your eyes. Many conditions fall under this umbrella term; diabetic retinopathy, macular edema, and glaucoma are some of the most common diabetes-related eye concerns.

Regular diabetic vision care appointments with an experienced provider at Optic Gallery Fort Apache are essential for people with diabetes. Diabetic retinopathy and other diabetes-related eye conditions don’t always cause symptoms in the early stages. 

Diabetic vision care ensures monitoring takes place for signs of eye disease, so your eye doctor can detect and treat any signs of trouble early on before significant damage occurs to your eyes. The health of your eyes and your vision itself depend on high-quality diabetic vision care.

What is diabetic retinopathy?

Diabetic retinopathy causes damage to the blood vessels in the back of your eye, known as the retina. Diabetic retinopathy can cause loss of vision and may result in complete blindness if left untreated. 

What are the most common symptoms of diabetic eye disease?

Symptoms vary depending on the type of diabetic eye disease, how far the disease has progressed, and individual factors. Some of the most common symptoms associated with diabetic eye disease include: 

• Irritation and inflammation
• Spots or floaters
• Blurry vision
• Blank or empty patches in your vision
• Impaired color perception
• Partial or complete vision loss

Most of the time, people experience symptoms in both eyes. Symptoms can range from mild to severe; you may notice that changes in blood sugar levels affect the severity of your symptoms.

How is diabetic eye disease treated?

In addition to regular eye exams, diabetic vision care at Optic Gallery Fort Apache involves a personalized treatment plan to alleviate your symptoms and help prevent further damage to your eyes. Your provider also works with your medical doctor to help you control your blood sugar levels.

If you have diabetes, don’t hesitate to get started on a vision care plan with a compassionate and experienced optometrist. Call Optic Gallery Fort Apache to schedule an evaluation, or make an appointment online today.