Diabetic Eye Care at Lafayette Eye Associates
Because diabetes can cause changes throughout the body, individuals diagnosed with the condition must learn to take extra precautions regarding eye health. The eyes are particularly vulnerable due to their delicate tissue. More frequent visits to the eye doctor and routine eye exams will ensure that you maintain proper eye health. At Lafayette Eye Associates in Lafayette Hill, PA, we help patients with diabetes take special care of their eyes every step of the way.
Diabetes and Your Eyes
Diabetes is a condition in which your pancreas fails to produce enough insulin necessary to remove insulin from your body. The buildup of glucose has a damaging effect on blood vessels throughout the body, including your eyes, where the blood vessels are very fragile. The lack of adequate blood supply to the eyes and other organs can cause several damaging conditions. That's why keeping your blood sugar levels within the normal range is so essential for individuals with diabetes.
Eye Conditions Associated with Diabetes
Individuals with diabetes may experience cataracts, a clouding of the lens of the eyes. Although cataracts mainly occur in older people, those with diabetes may experience the advancement of cataracts sooner than non-diabetics. Glaucoma is another eye condition that may occur in those with diabetes. Damage to the retina that transfers visual images to the brain can also occur in a condition named diabetic retinopathy.
Treatment for Diabetic Eye Problems
Our team of optometrists recommend more frequent visits to our eye doctors to ensure your eyes are remaining healthy. During exams, our eye doctors will be able to detect changes in the condition of the blood vessels in your eyes. If a problem is detected, specific treatments can then begin immediately to preserve vision. In some cases, medications are used to treat eye diseases. Other therapies are also available. If necessary, surgery can be performed to help preserve vision and you will be referred to top eye surgeons in your area.
Make Lafayette Eye Associates Your Doctor for Diabetic Eye Care
Our team of optometrists and ophthalmologists offers a full range of eye care options for patients in Lafayette Hill and surrounding areas. We provide comprehensive eye exams, eyeglass fitting, contact lens fitting, pediatric eye care, vision therapy, and treatment of eye diseases. Contact Lafayette Eye Associates today at (610) 825-3937 to have your eyes examined and to learn about caring for your eyes when you have diabetes.