It is estimated that more than 1 million adults in Pennsylvania have diabetes and approximately 1/4 are not aware that they have it. Through a comprehensive dilated eye exam, signs and symptoms of vascular diseases such as diabetes can be detected. People with diabetes have a higher risk of blindness than people without diabetes. With regular checkups, diabetics will greatly benefit from early detection of eye problems. Most treatments work very well if they are started right away.
Glaucoma
People with diabetes are 40% more likely to suffer from glaucoma than people without diabetes. The longer someone has had diabetes, the more common glaucoma is. Risk also increases with age. Glaucoma occurs when pressure builds up in the eye. Vision is gradually lost because of damage to the retina and nerves. There are several treatments for glaucoma possible, sometimes drugs are used to reduce pressure in the eye, sometimes surgery is recommended.
Cataracts
Many people without diabetes get cataracts, but people with diabetes are 60% more likely to develop this eye condition. People with diabetes also tend to get cataracts at a younger age and have them progress faster. With cataracts, the eye’s clear lens clouds, blocking light. To help deal with mild cataracts, sunglasses are recommended as well as glare-control lenses in eyeglasses. More advanced cataracts may require surgery.
OUR LOCATIONS:
78 Salem Avenue
Carbondale, PA 18407
PHONE: (570) 282-2000 • FAX: (570) 483-8210
4 Meadow Avenue
Scranton, PA 18505-2337
PHONE: (570) 504-1530 • FAX: (570) 504-1533
216 Nazareth Pike
Bethlehem, PA 18020
PHONE: (610) 813-0342 • FAX: (610) 813-0628
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