Diabetic eye disease is the leading cause of new cases of blindness among adults ages 20-74. Although regular eye exams are a proven way to prevent vision loss, surveys show that less than half of people with diabetes get their eyes checked on a regular basis. Retinopathy causes up to 24,000 new cases of blindness each year, and as diabetes reaches epidemic proportions, the number of people facing blindness is expected to grow.Ben Chang, MD, of Stahl Eye Center says, unfortunately, many people with diabetes already have advanced eye disease when they finally see an ophthalmologist. “Generally, by the time patients are aware of visual problems, they’ve already sustained permanent, irreversible damage,” he says. Dr. Chang, who has offices in Garden City, Hauppauge and Manhattan, is seeking to raise awareness during Healthy Vision Month in May, and throughout the year.
"In this day and age, it’s really tragic to see anyone go blind from diabetic eye disease. The problem is that many people with diabetes are unaware of the importance of regular eye exams. Prevention is the best medicine,” says Dr. Chang, who specializes in diseases of the retina. The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends that everyone with diabetes have an eye exam with dilated pupils at least once a year. Early detection, timely treatment and follow-up care can reduce the risk of vision loss significantly.
People develop retinopathy when diabetes damages the tiny blood vessels in the retina. At first, they may not notice any changes in their sight and may even have 20/20 vision. But over time, diabetic retinopathy usually gets worse and causes vision loss. With early detection, laser treatment can often save sight. Kenalog, a steroid, is an alternative treatment for people who have not been helped by the laser, or for whom laser treatment is not appropriate, according to Dr. Chang.
Anyone who has blurred vision or floating spots should make an appointment with an ophthalmologist. During the exam, the physician dilates the eye, or enlarges the pupil, so he can look inside to check for signs of the disease.
In addition to yearly eye exams, Dr. Chang says it's important for people with diabetes to develop good health habits to preserve their vision. That means watching their diet and maintaining a healthy weight, getting regular exercise, not smoking and carefully controlling their blood sugar levels.
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