Diabetic Retinopathy Treatment from an Optometrist in MI

Diabetes occurs when blood glucose or sugar levels are too high. It can lead to eye diseases that are more common among those with diabetes, including diabetic retinopathy, the leading cause of blindness in working-age adults. Managing blood sugar levels is essential for those with diabetes to maintain overall health and the health of their eyes. If you need an optometrist and live in Southwestern Michigan communities such as St. Joseph, South Haven, Benton Harbor, or Stevensville, consider contacting our team at Advanced Family Eye Care.

Diabetes and Your Eye Health

Diabetes contributes to multiple eye diseases that cause poor vision or blindness when left untreated. However, the most common diabetes-related eye problem is diabetic retinopathy. High blood sugar causes swelling in the blood vessels of the retina at the back of your eyes, leading to new blood vessels growing. Unfortunately, the new blood vessels often bleed, causing damage. The blood vessels also can swell in the macula at the center of your retina to cause macular edema.

Non-Surgical Management and Treatment of Diabetic Retinopathy

The best treatments for diabetes and diabetic retinopathy are lifestyle changes and medication. These work best when identified early and before significant damage occurs. Lifestyle changes include managing your blood sugar level by regularly measuring it and bringing it under control by:

• Getting regular exercise
• Taking your prescribed medications, including insulin
• Dietary changes to increase your consumption of non-starchy vegetables and lean meats
• Scheduling regular eye exams to monitor the disease and symptoms

Preventing diabetes is the best option, but managing blood sugar levels to limit further damage is the next best option.

Surgical Treatment for Diabetic Retinopathy

Surgical treatment for diabetic retinopathy includes laser or other surgeries. Laser surgery targets the parts of the retina with abnormal blood vessels and works to shrink or prevent the blood vessels from leaking. Another surgical option is vitrectomy. This procedure removes the vitreous gel inside your eyes to allow repairs to occur. After the procedure, your eyes are refilled with gases or oils until your body can replace the removed gel.

Treating Diabetic Retinopathy at Advanced Family Eye Care

If you live in or near St. Joseph, South Haven, Benton Harbor, or Stevensville and have diabetes or other eye disease management needs, contact our team at Advanced Family Eye Care. Call us today at (844) 398-4022 or use our appointment request form to schedule an appointment.