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5900 Heckert Rd.
P.O. Box 324
Bakerstown, PA 15007
724-443-6767 Phone
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Natrona Heights, PA 15065
724-226-0444 Phone
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Diabetic Eye Disease

Diabetics need to be particularly vigilant in taking care of their eyes. Diabetic eye disease comprises a group of eye conditions that affect people with diabetes. These conditions include diabetic retinopathy, diabetic macular edema, cataracts, and glaucoma. All forms of diabetic eye disease have the potential to cause severe vision loss and blindness.

Diabetic retinopathy, the most common of the group is caused by damage to the blood vessels in the tissue at the back of the eye (retina). Poorly controlled blood sugar is a risk factor.

Early symptoms include floaters, blurriness, dark areas of vision, and difficulty perceiving colors.

There is no cure for diabetic retinopathy. But laser treatment (photocoagulation) is usually very effective at preventing vision loss if it is done before the retina has been severely damaged. Surgical removal of the vitreous gel (vitrectomy) may also help improve vision if the retina has not been severely damaged.

The best course of treatment is to have an annual comprehensive eye exam unless you are being treated for one of these diabetic diseases.

 

Additional Eye Conditions: Glaucoma, Macular Degeneration, Low Vision, Cataracts, Diabetic Eye Disease, Dry Eye Treatment, Concussions