Diabetic Retinopathy Management
Diabetic retinopathy is an eye disease that affects people with diabetes. It is the most common cause of vision loss among individuals with diabetes, and if left undiagnosed and untreated, can cause blindness. Diabetic retinopathy causes swelling or weakening of the tiny blood vessels in the retina (the tissue at the back of the eye that helps us see), causing the blood vessels to leak. Often, the beginning stages of diabetic retinopathy do not have noticeable symptoms, making it very important for individuals with diabetes to have yearly eye exams.
Glaucoma Testing and Management
Glaucoma is an eye disease caused by elevated pressure within the eye, which damages the optic nerve and can lead to vision loss if not detected and treated at an early stage. This condition is one of the leading causes of blindness for individuals aged over 60 years. Glaucoma is often called the “sneak thief of sight” because it has no symptoms until serious damage has occurred. It is important to have regular eye exams to detect early signs of glaucoma, especially if you have a family history of this condition. Testing for glaucoma typically involves measuring the internal pressure of the eye and having a detailed scan of the retina to check for signs of disease. Typically, initial treatment for glaucoma includes eye drops. Glaucoma treatments involve improving the flow of fluid from the eye or reducing its production.
Macular Degeneration
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a disease which affects the macula, which is the center of the retina, the layer at the back of the eyeball which is important for vision. AMD is a leading cause of vision loss among older adults. This condition affects central vision, meaning that images that used to be clear may start to appear blurred, and dark spots may appear. Since AMD symptoms develop gradually and without pain, it is crucial to have regular eye exams for early detection. Although there is no cure for AMD, there are a number of treatments and preventative measures if it is detected early.
