Diabetic Eye Exams in Spartanburg

Diabetic retinopathy is the result of damage to the tiny blood vessels that nourish the retina. These blood vessels can cause the retinal tissue to swell, and clouded vision to occur. If a person with diabetes develops diabetic retinopathy, it is likely to occur in both eyes. Diabetic retinopathy can cause blindness if left untreated, so regular eye examinations are critical in helping to preserve your sight.

Diabetic macular edema (DME) can occur in individuals living with diabetes, and usually occurs as a result of untreated diabetic retinopathy. DME occurs when fluids leak from the blood vessels, and accumulate under your macula, causing it to swell, resulting in vision impairment. Vision changes due to DME include:

• Blurred vision
• Double vision
• A sudden increase in eye floaters

Maintaining good control over glucose levels is recommended for people living with diabetes to help mitigate the risk of DME.

A cataract is a cloudy or opaque area in the normally clear lens of the eye. High blood sugar levels can create deposits that build up on the lens, leading to blurred vision. While there are no clinically proven approaches to preventing cataracts, it’s recommended that individuals with diabetes maintain control of their blood sugar to help prevent permanent damage.

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases in which progressive damage to the optic nerve. It is characterized by loss of nerve tissue resulting in impaired vision (typically, peripheral or side vision is affected first). Unfortunately, vision loss due to glaucoma cannot be restored. Maintaining regular eye exams is a proactive way to stay on top of your eye health and help reduce the damage done by glaucoma.