Do you have Diabetes? Diabetes- The Leading Cause of Blindness in Adults Age 20-74

Diabetic retinopathy is a condition that affects people with diabetes.  Diabetes is a disease that interferes with the body’s ability to properly use and store sugar and is the leading cause of blindness among adults age 20 to 74 years.  There are over 25 million Americans living with diabetes, and Hispanic Americans suffer at a rate twice as high as non-Hispanics.   Diabetes is also a major risk factor for cataract, glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy which is the most damaging of the three diseases.  Diabetic retinopathy can cause the formation of small blood vessels that can leak in the eye causing damage to your retina and blurring your vision.  Maintaining good control of blood sugar levels can slow the onset and progression of diabetic retinopathy.  Uncontrolled diabetes can eventually lead to blindness.

The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends the following steps for people with diabetes:

• Have a comprehensive dilated eye examination from your doctor once a year.
• Maintain normal blood sugar levels.
• Maintain healthy blood pressure and cholesterols.
• Quit smoking
• Regular exercise

How do we treat diabetic retinopathy?

Early diabetic retinopathy may not need to be treatment right away.  However your eye specialist will closely monitor your eyes every 6-12 months.

Advanced Diabetic retinopathy needs prompt medical attention.  The treatment can include laser surgery treatment, intra-ocular injections of medications, and/or vitrectomy surgery.  These types of treatments often stop or even reverse the progression of diabetic retinopathy.

There are many new studies and developments in the treatment of diabetic retinopathy and Miramar Eye Specialists Medical Group is proud to be participating in many of the current FDA studies for these promising new medications and treatments.

To see if you are a candidate for any of the ongoing studies please call 805.648.3085.  At MESMG we are committed to maintaining your vision.  By screening annually we use a team of specialists to treat all of your problems.