Diabetic Retinopathy & Neuropathy

We have known for quite some time that with both Type 1 & Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus are at high risk for developing diabetic retinopathy, which is the most common cause of irreversible blindness in adults. Vision loss occurs because of microvascular damage to the retina. People with diabetes are typically not aware that they are also at risk for developing retinal diabetic neuropathy, which is the loss of nerve cells in the retina. For many years, scientists believed patients developed retinopathy and, as a result of the damage to the blood vessels, later developed neuropathy. Doctors were focusing on early detection and treatment of retinopathy to prevent blindness, which they thought would then prevent the damage caused by neuropathy.

In a new study researchers discovered that the sequence of events occurring in the retina is just the opposite. Unfortunately we now know that the nerve damage actually does come first, before the vessel damage. Even people with diabetes who never get retinopathy can still develop this damage, and after many years, damage may be severe, similar to glaucoma. As part of the diabetic eye exam we provide for patients, we often perform a test called Optical Coherence Topography (OCT) that actually allows us to carefully examine the retinal nerve fiber health

The best way to prevent vision loss from diabetic retinopathy is through early detection, diagnosis and treatment with regular eye exams. If you or someone you know is diabetic and needs an diabetic eye exam please call Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center at 219-464-8223, or visit Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center, Google+ or facebook.com/nwindianaeyeandlaser.  

Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center offices are located at 502 Marquette Street, Valparaiso, Indiana 46383 and 1001 South Edgewood Drive, Knox, Indiana 46354. 

Diabetes & Unexpected Health Problems

Diabetic eye disease and eye problems are well known by most patients because their primary care physician and eye doctor tell them repeated about the need to for tight blood sugar control in order to prevent eye problems. But most patients with diabetes are unaware of some unexpected health problems that can be related to diabetes and can be easily overlooked.

Cognitive, Memory & Brain Function Decline

It is not uncommon for Type 2 Diabetics to experience diminished ability in memory recall and focus, as well as organizing, planning and completing tasks. Research shows that people with diabetes have abnormal blood flow to the brain, which affects function and activity. This explains why, with age, diabetics may experience slower mental performance. This is another reason why managing your diabetes  requires a proactive effort to carefully follow your doctor’s instructions for proper diet, exercise, medications, lifestyle and glucose levels, as well as scheduling regular follow up visits and keeping all appointments.

Hearing Loss

Did you know that diabetics are twice as likely to experience hearing loss as they age? The National Institutes of Health also reports that 30 percent of pre-diabetics, with higher-than-normal glucose levels, can experience hearing loss. The disease can affect the small blood vessels in the inner ear, causing impairment. Protect hearing by regularly monitoring blood sugar levels.

Gum & Periodontal Disease

Did you know that diabetics are more prone to developing periodontal disease, an infection of the gums that can lead to tooth loss? A study of 9,000 people at the Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health discovered that individuals with higher levels of periodontal disease were more likely to become diabetic within the next two decades, as compared to those without the disease. Periodontal disease can increase blood sugar, making it even more difficult to control diabetes. Be proactive and prevent oral health and gum problems by brushing twice daily, flossing once each day and using an antiseptic mouthwash daily.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea

About 50 percent of diabetics experience obstructive sleep apnea. People who are obese and have a collar size of more than 17 for men or 16 for women are more likely to suffer from apnea when they sleep. Researchers reporting in American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine noted that people with severe cases of obstructive sleep apnea may have a 30 percent higher risk for developing diabetes. OSA is an increases risk factor for many eye problems including glaucoma.

While these are some unexpected diabetic health problems, the avoidance and management of diabetic retinopathy is critical. The best way to prevent vision loss from diabetic retinopathy is through early detection, diagnosis and treatment with regular eye exams. If you or someone you know is diabetic and needs a diabetic eye exam please call Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center at 219-464-8223, or visit Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center, Google+ or facebook.com/nwindianaeyeandlaser. 

Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center offices are located at 502 Marquette Street, Valparaiso, Indiana 46383 and 1001 South Edgewood Drive, Knox, Indiana 46354. 

Story from Florist about Cataracts

“For 20 years I have been a florist.  Day in and day out I deal with lots of different colors.  I started noticing over the course of a few months that things seemed very dark and dim.  I don’t wear glasses except just to read so I wasn’t sure it was a vision issue.  I made an appointment and found out that I had cataracts. I always thought that “old” people could only get cataracts.  I guess I was wrong! I had them removed by Dr. Buck and I am amazed at how bright everything is! Colors are bright and bold and I even think my floral arrangements look better!”

If you or some you know is experiencing cataract symptoms such as cloudy foggy vision, glare or difficult night driving and would like to learn more about cataract surgery & lens implants please call Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center at 219-464-8223, or visit Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center, Google+ or facebook.com/nwindianaeyeandlaser for Free LASIK Consultation. 

Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center offices are located at 502 Marquette Street, Valparaiso, Indiana 46383 and 1001 South Edgewood Drive, Knox, Indiana 46354.