LASIK, CATARACTS & LENS IMPLANTS

Michael E. Rom, M.D

Q:

What is diabetic retinopathy? A:

Diabetic retinopathy is diabetes complication that affects the eyes. This condition is caused by high blood sugar levels which causes the blood vessels behind the retina to leak fluid behind the extremely sensitive nervous tissue, resulting blurred vision or vision loss. Patients with either Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes can develop diabetic retinopathy, and the more blood sugar is uncontrolled, the more likely the condition will develop. Also, the longer a person has diabetes, the more likely they are to develop the disease. It is estimated that nearly 80% of patients who have had diabetes for at least 10 years have some degree of diabetic retinopathy. Initially, diabetic retinopathy may not show many symptoms. However, as the condition progresses, the common symptoms include floaters and flashes, blurred vision, dark areas, and color vision impairment.

The best way to prevent vision loss from diabetic retinopathy is careful and proactive management of diabetes. If you have diabetes, it is crucial to see your eye doctor every year for a dilated eye exam, even if you are not experience any vision problems. If you are a diabetic and have noticed any changes in your vision, please contact your eye doctor as soon as possible to prevent a potential serious vision problem.

Michael E. Rom, M.D.

Insight Eye Center Chardon (440) 286-1188 Mentor (440 205-5840 www.insighteyecenter.com