Diabetes-Related Eye Problems in Chesterfield, MO

If you have diabetes, it is extremely important to partner with an expert ophthalmologist who can closely examine your eyes on a regular basis and diagnose any diabetes-related eye problems. These eye problems include conditions like diabetic retinopathy and diabetic macular edema. If you have diabetes in Chesterfield or O'Fallon, MO, then please schedule regular comprehensive exams and have your diabetes-related eye problems treated by an experienced ophthalmologist. 

How does diabetes affect the eyes?
High blood sugar from diabetes can damage the blood vessels in the retina, leading to vision problems. Over time, the damage can cause the blood vessels to leak or become blocked, affecting the retina's ability to function properly and leading to conditions like diabetic retinopathy and macular edema.

Can diabetes cause permanent vision loss?
Yes, if left untreated, diabetes-related eye problems, such as diabetic retinopathy, can lead to permanent vision loss. Early detection and treatment are essential to prevent severe damage and preserve vision.

What are the risk factors for diabetic eye problems?
Risk factors for diabetic eye problems include poor blood sugar control, long duration of diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, pregnancy, and a family history of eye disease. Smokers are also at an increased risk.

Treatment for diabetes-related eye issues, sometimes generally referred to as "diabetic eye disease," will depend on the type and stage of the problem. The first step in managing any diabetes-related eye problem is to have regular eye exams so that any issue that arises can be detected in its early stages.

There are two primary conditions exclusive to patients with diabetes:

• Diabetic retinopathy - High blood sugar causes blockages in the blood vessels around the retina and leads to new, abnormal, and leaky blood vessel growth.
• Diabetic macular edema - Fluid builds up in the macula and distorts vision.

Several different options for managing and treating these conditions exist, including injecting medications that stop the growth of abnormal blood vessels in the eye and laser procedures that target and destroy abnormal blood vessels. It also remains important to continue to manage your blood sugar levels with your primary physician.

If you have a diabetic eye disease, there are a few options for treating your condition and helping to preserve your vision. Contact West County Ophthalmology and continue to undergo regular comprehensive eye exams in order to identify diabetic eye problems early. Contact one of our locations to schedule your comprehensive eye exam.