Those with diabetes face a heightened risk for vision loss, but they often to do not notice early symptoms of diabetic eye disease. This makes regular eye exams extremely important to those who suffer from type 1 or type 2 diabetes.

The ophthalmologists and retina specialists at American Eye Associates have extensive experience in the diagnosis and treatment of diabetic vision conditions. If you or a loved one has diabetes and is noticing vision problems or needs to schedule an eye exam, please call our El Centro office at (760) 412-5136 or our Chula Vista office at (619) 378-3202.

Diabetic retinopathy is the leading cause of blindness in Americans with diabetes, according to the National Eye Institute, a division of the National Institutes of Health. Diabetic retinopathy occurs when the blood vessels in the retina are progressively damaged by elevated sugar levels in the bloodstream.

This condition can also lead to diabetic macular edema, which is the result of fluid from the damaged blood vessels seeping into the macula (the portion of the retina dedicated to central vision) and causing it to swell.

Diabetics also face an increased risk for glaucoma. Glaucoma includes a number of conditions that lead to fluid pressure buildup that causes optic nerve damage.

Early detection of diabetic retinopathy and glaucoma can help prevent vision loss. Those with diabetes are encouraged to undergo a dilated eye exam at least once a year. Diabetics should not wait for changes in vision or discomfort to schedule an exam; the symptoms of these conditions often develop gradually and subtly.

If you or a loved one is diabetic and is due for an eye exam, please contact American Eye Associates today. With two locations, we welcome patients from the greater San Diego, El Centro and Chula Vista areas