There are several chronic eye diseases associated with diabetes, including glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, diabetic macular edema, and cataracts. Over time, diabetes leads to poor vision and possibly blindness if untreated. The disease changes fluid levels in the eye and causes swelling in the eye tissues. At The Center for Eye Care and Optical, our ophthalmology professionals have years of experience identifying and addressing diabetic eye diseases for residents of West Islip, NY, and the surrounding areas.

Symptoms and Types of Diabetic Eye Disease

Symptoms of diabetic eye disease include blurry vision, vision loss, flashes of light, eye pain, and floaters. Diabetic retinopathy causes blood vessels to swell or leak near the retina. Diabetic macular edema leads to swelling in the part of the eye used to see, read, and drive. Glaucoma is an eye disease that damages the optic nerve which connects the eyes to the brain. Diabetes doubles your chances of developing this disease.

Cataracts are a cloudy film that develops on the lenses of the eyes. While cataracts are a common consequence of aging, diabetes significantly increases your chances of developing cataracts. Smoking and high cholesterol contribute to diabetic eye diseases.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Diabetic Eye Disease

When you first visit The Center for Eye Care and Optical for diabetic eye disease treatment, our eye doctor will perform a comprehensive eye exam to test your vision, measure the pressure in your eye, and detect symptoms of diabetic eye disease. Depending on the findings of our eye doctor, we may have you take prescription drugs that block the growth of abnormal blood cells in the eyes. Laser therapy may be used to treat leaking fluid and swelling. Cataract lenses surgery removes the clouded lenses of your eye. Sometimes, vision loss can be managed with glasses and lenses. Our eye doctor will identify and address any diabetic eye diseases you might be suffering from.

Contact Us Today

If you need diabetic eye disease treatment in West Islip, NY, or the surrounding areas, the ophthalmology professionals at The Center for Eye Care and Optical are ready to assist you. For more information on diabetic eye disease or to schedule an appointment, call us at (631) 825-7725.