Women, men, and children with diabetes are at risk for eye disorders that can lead to severe consequences, including impaired vision and blindness. Regular exams by Dr. Aira Canlas at Sunset Optometric Center in Los Feliz, California ensure that any diabetes-related changes to your eyes are caught and treated early. Los Angeles residents with diabetes can book an appointment online or call the Sunset Optometric Center to set up regular yearly exams.
Diabetes is a disease that affects how your body produces and uses insulin, a hormone that helps your cells convert digested sugars into fuel. Without sufficient insulin, the sugars remain circulating in your bloodstream, where they damage the capillaries in your retina (a condition known as diabetic retinopathy).
Diabetes increases your risk for cataracts and glaucoma. It can also cause diabetic macular edema (DME), which is a buildup of fluid in the macular region of your retina.
Diabetic retinopathy and DME don’t have symptoms. Dr. Canlas at Sunset Optometric Center identifies these conditions through a series of tests performed during your annual eye exam. Always let your optometrist know that you have diabetes.
Cataracts and glaucoma can lead to vision changes such as halos, double images, blurred or cloudy vision, and colors that look faded. You may also experience eye pain or sensitivity to light.
If you want to maintain healthy eyes and vision, it’s essential to keep your diabetes under control and to have your vision tested yearly at Sunset Optometric Centers. Neglecting your diabetes-related eye changes can lead to severe vision impairment and even blindness.
Your optometrist may perform the following tests:
If you were given dilating eye drops, driving can be difficult. Arrange to have a friend, family member, or ride service to take you to and from the Sunset Optometric Center.
Each condition requires different treatments. Some options include:
If you have diabetes, don’t wait until you start experiencing vision problems before scheduling an appointment at Sunset Optometric Centers. Call now to arrange a regular exam, or set one up online.
