Eye exams can give an early warning of undiagnosed diabetes and warn doctors of the presence of diabetic retinopathy. Ophthalmologists can examine the retina and detect areas of bleeding outside of the eye’s blood vessels, which may eventually cause blindness.
Lasers can be used early on to decrease leakage by cauterizing the retina, but this cannot cure the condition. Because diabetes can lead to vision loss, early detection is essential. “With the increased diagnosis of diabetes in our population, it’s critically important that everyone have a complete eye exam once they’re past 45 years of age every year,” said Dr. Alan Lacoste, an ophthalmologist.
(c) Copyright 2010 Information, Inc. WCBD.com (SC) (02/03/10)
