If you're diabetic, you're aware of how important diet and exercise are to keeping your blood glucose levels within the normal range. Controlling diabetes is important because ongoing elevations in blood glucose levels can lead to complications. Some of these complications include kidney damage, increased risk of heart attacks, and neuropathy. However, many diabetics fail to realize the importance of proper eye care. Diabetics are prone to cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, and glaucoma.
 

Common Diabetic Eye Conditions 

• Cataracts - This condition results when the normally clear lenses of the eye become clouded. This causes impaired night vision, pain, sensitivity to light, and even blindness. Surgery to replace the defective lenses of the eyes is the only way to treat cataracts. If you're diagnosed with cataracts, our eye surgeon is ready to assist you.

• Glaucoma - Glaucoma occurs when the optic nerve is damaged. People with glaucoma usually lose their peripheral vision, see halos around bright lights, experience eye pain, and can become blind. Treatment includes eye drops and other medications. In severe cases, surgery will be necessary.

• Diabetic retinopathy - This condition occurs when uncontrolled diabetes damages the blood vessels in the eyes. Diabetic retinopathy can cause blurred vision, floaters, visual black spots, and blindness. It is important to schedule regular eye exams so diabetic retinopathy can be diagnosed and treated as quickly as possible. Treatment includes nutritional therapy such as following a low-carb diet, medications, and laser surgery.
   

It is recommended that people with diabetes undergo a comprehensive eye exam at least once a year, although some diabetics need to have them more often. If you need a reliable ophthalmologist or eye surgeon in the Chico, CA area, Reeve Woods Eye Center is a great choice.
 

Schedule an Appointment with Our Ophthalmologist in Chico Today

If you are in need of diabetic eye care in Chico, contact Reeve Woods Eye Center today. Call us at (530) 899-2244 for more information or to schedule an appointment with our ophthalmologist.