“EYE CARE” FOR YOU

November Is Diabetic Awareness Month:
Dr. J. A. Parker
Dr. J. A. Parker

November has been declared by Prevent Blindness as Diabetic Eye Disease Awareness Month to educate the public on the effects of diabetes on vision, risk factors and treatment options.

Diabetic retinopathy is one of the leading causes of blindness in America and especially so among African Americans. The number of diabetes cases continues to increase, and the condition is hitting people at a much younger age than ever before, which means more of permanent vision loss to millions across the country. Everyone is encouraged to get a routine dilated eye exam and to do this annually. For the uncontrolled diabetic, more frequent exams are required to make sure that the eyes are healthy and that there is no risk for blindness. Early detection is the key to preventing this blinding eye disease.

The most common complications of diabetes are diabetic retinopathy and diabetic-related macula edema. Diabetic retinopathy occurs when small blood vessels leak and bleed into the retina. Diabetes-related macula edema results in swelling in the part of the eye called the macula after having diabetic retinopathy. The macula is the area that controls our central vision. When there is swelling in this area, the central vision becomes blurry and distorted. This can result in permanent damage to the eyes and vision if it is not treated quickly and properly.

The treatment for diabetic retinopathy and macula edema includes controlling the blood sugar and may require injections and or laser treatment to stop the leakage of blood in the eyes to prevent the swelling.

My office is currently participating in a study for diabetics that focuses on nutrition and vitamin supplements that helps to prevent diabetic eye disease. If you are diabetic, I invite you to contact the office and request an evaluation to see if you are a candidate for this study. As always, my focus is on making sure you not only have good vision, but also healthy eyes.

321 W. Montgomery

Crossroads, Savannah

(near Hunter Golf Course)

For appointments, call

(912) 927-0707 www.envisionsavannah.com

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