Diabetes and its effects on the eye

JA KRUGER SPOKESPERSON DIABETIC eye disease is a comprehensive term used to describe a group of eye problems that people with diabetes may face as a complication of their illness. All of these diseases have the potential to cause severe vision loss or even blindness. Therefore, diabetic eye treatment is of utmost importance.

Controlling blood sugar is the single most important thing a person with diabetes can do to prevent the complications of diabetes and diabetic retinopathy. In addition to the importance of diet and exercise, high blood pressure should be strictly controlled and kept normal. Smoking is known to be particularly bad for people with diabetes because it promotes the closure of blood vessels.

The severity of diabetic retinopathy is often related to the length of time the person has had the illness. All people with diabetes, especially those who have had diabetes a long time, should have regular eye examinations (particularly examinations of the retina, through a dilated pupil) to be sure that diabetic retinopathy is not developing. Laser eye treatment can be helpful for the treatment of diabetic retinopathy. Avastin and Lucentis injection may be beneficial to some patients suffering from macular edema related to their diabetes. Vitrectomy surgery may be indicated for patients with advanced diabetic eye disease.

For a comprehensive diabetic eye examination, call The Tygervalley Eye & Laser Centre on the number in the advertisement on this page. See our website for more information about how diabetes can affect your eyes at www.eyelaserclinic.co.za.