DIABETES

Patients with diabetes are especially vulnerable to eye disease. Our eye doctor recommends a dilated eye examination at least once a year for our patients with diabetes as is the standard set by the American Diabetes Association, the American Medical Association, and the American Optometric Association.

Diabetic Retinopathy

In Chesapeake, Norfolk and Virginia Beach, the most commonly observed ocular complication due to diabetes is diabetic retinopathy. Diabetic retinopathy is seen when blood vessels inside of the eye become leaky. As a result, blood, fluid, and proteins can collect on top of and underneath the retina causing a myriad of visual problems.

In fact, diabetic retinopathy is a leading cause of blindness in persons under the age of 65. Often, in the early stages of retinopathy, the patient’s vision is not affected. Therefore, prevention and early detection are critical in maintaining good vision.

Retinal Imaging Systems

Our eye care clinic utilizes retinal imaging systems to track signs of diabetic retinopathy. This allows our eye doctor to determine if and when more specialized or surgical care is needed for our patients. Information about your eye examination is communicated to your primary care physician to allow more efficient and prompt management of your diabetes.