Diabetes
can affect more than just blood sugar. In some patients, it can also cause
diabetic retinopathy, which affects vision by damaging the small vessels
located at the back of the eye. Glaucoma and cataracts are also a danger. That
is why it is so important that patients with diabetes have their eyes checked
by an ophthalmologist.
To protect eyes from the damaging effects of diabetic retinopathy, regular
appointments with an ophthalmologist are necessary. These special doctors are
trained to diagnose and treat all eye ailments. They are both medical doctors
and surgeons. A general physician will not do extensive tests to catch these
conditions.
Routine checks should include dilation of the eye, making it possible to see
the back of the eyeball where the blood vessels are located. Not only will the
doctor be able to tell if there is damage, but he or she can also check for
other diseases that may be caused by diabetes.
Those who keep their blood sugar levels close to normal and routinely have their
eyes checked by a licensed ophthalmologist are less likely to have
complications.
