Diabetes Related Eye Problems

Patients with diabetes are more likely to develop eye problems such as cataracts and glaucoma, but the disease's effect on the retina is the main threat to vision. Over time, diabetes affects the circulatory system of the retina, and this effect is called diabetic retinopathy.

In its earliest phase, blood vessels in the retina become weakened and leak. These leaking vessels often lead to swelling (or edema) in the retina and cause decreased vision. As the condition worsens, circulation problems cause areas of the retina to become oxygen-deprived (or ischemic). New, fragile vessels (neovascularization) develop in an attempt to maintain adequate oxygen levels within the retina. These delicate vessels hemorrhage easily, causing blood to leak into the vitreous. The result causes symptoms of floaters or decreased vision. In the later phases of the disease, continued abnormal vessel growth and scar tissue may cause serious problems, such as retinal detachment.

Diabetic patients should have routine eye examinations so related eye problems can be detected and treated as early as possible. Retinal specialists rely on several tests to monitor the disease's progression and make treatment decisions. The most common cause of vision loss associated with diabetic retinopathy is diabetic macular edema. Laser treatment applied to the leaky blood vessels (focal photocoagulation) is helpful in preventing further vision loss. Two common procedures used in the treatment of proliferative diabetic retinopathy are pan retinal photocoagulation (PRP) and vitrectomy.

Pan retinal photocoagulation (PRP) is a type of laser surgery used to destroy oxygen-deprived retinal tissues outside of the patient's central vision. This treatment does create blind spots in the peripheral vision, but PRP prevents the continued growth of fragile vessels and seals the ones that leak.

Vitrectomy is used to remove the blood clots that occur in the gel-like substance that fills the center of the eye, called the vitreous. During a vitrectomy, the retina surgeon removes the blood and vitreous from the eye and replaces it with clear saline solution. The surgeon may also cut strands of vitreous attached to the retina that create traction, which may lead to retinal detachments if not removed.

Diabetic patients who are able to maintain appropriate blood sugar levels have fewer eye problems than those with poor control. Diabetic patients can also reduce the possibilities of eye complications by scheduling yearly dilated eye examinations with an eye doctor.

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Open 1 Sunday/month (By appointment only)

07/09/2023 , 08/20/2023, 09/17/2023, 10/22/2023, 11/19/2023, 12/17/2023, 12/31/2023

Testimonials

What Our Clients Say About Us

  • "I have been to Visio Eyecare for the past three years and I am very satisfied with this place. Number one perk, they are open on Sunday and getting an appointment is extremely easy! The eye doctor is very nice and helpful; she really listen to what you want and if you say you do not want to spend a dime over what is necessary, she listens and advises you on glasses under your budget; my glasses have always been ready quickly; I will recommend this place to anyone!"
    Lili B.
  • "I had a wonderful experience today. Called and they had me come in immediately for an appointment. Everyone was extremely nice and Dr Au helped me choose my new glasses.
    I will be going back yearly."
    Michael B.
  • "Dr. Au is GREAT! I can't say anything better about her. She makes you comfortable, explains your insurance claims and gets you the best deals within your budget."
    Lauren B.
  • "I never thought I would feel compelled to write a yelp review for an eye doctor but Dr. Au and her receptionist are so awesome that I must! I just moved to the area and had run out of contacts so I just googled the closest eye dr. She has given me multiple lens samples so I can find what best works for me before ordering. I feel so cared for in her office and am so happy I found her."
    Meredith K.
  • "Great service at a very fair price. Skip that chainstore and that place with the fancy waiting room and go here."
    Paul K.
  • "I've worn glasses for about 15 years and this is the most personable interaction I've ever had at an eye center. Dr. Au and the receptionist were sooo sweet and considerate. I came here unintentionally as I was desperate for an appointment and they had an opening the same day. I'm so glad I found this place! Not to mention I was in and out in 30 minutes and they have great COVID precautions!"
    Jaicha V.
  • "Dr. Au and her receptionist are the nicest! They make everything super fast and easy and explain everything very clearly. She referred me to Wills Eye Hospital for additional testing and they were very impressed that she had picked up on a rare issue that I have with my eyes. I highly recommend Dr. Au!"
    Sarah C.
  • "I've been going here for 2 years now. They truly are the hardest working people out there. I always appreciate all their efforts and hospitality. If you're ever in a bind they are always flexible with scheduling and get you in and out fast! Highly recommend this place to anyone searching for an optometrist. The providers and staff are A+!!!!"
    Calvin L.