By Dr. Ravin Sajnani, MD
Hello Coral Springs and Parkland! My name is Ravin Sajnani, and I’m an Ophthalmologist practicing in Coral Springs. In this monthly piece, I’d like to share some interesting and useful tidbits about our eyes – how they work and how we can take care of them.
This month we’ll focus on diabetes and the eyes. As many of us know, Diabetes Mellitus (typically just referred to as diabetes) is a medical condition in which blood sugar can run high. Over time, high blood sugar can damage the small blood vessels of the body. Three common complications that can happen when the small blood vessels get damaged are diabetic nephropathy (affecting the kidneys), diabetic neuropathy (affecting nerves), and diabetic retinopathy (affecting the retina – the back of the eye where our eyes’ nerves are). Diabetic retinopathy typically starts silently, and often one can experience no symptoms until the condition has advanced significantly. At its worst, diabetic retinopathy can cause macular edema (fluid in the retina), death of regions of the retina, and retinal detachments.
The best way to prevent diabetic retinopathy is to make sure your blood sugar is well controlled. This can be accomplished by working closely with your primary care provider who can advise you on healthy diet and exercise habits. Beyond this, since diabetic retinopathy often starts without symptoms, it is important for everyone diagnosed with diabetes to have a dilated eye exam at least once a year. This way, the retinopathy can be caught and, if necessary, treated earlier.
Coral Springs Ophthalmology
(720 W. Sample Rd Coral Springs
To Schedule an appointment please call
964-736-3110
Or for more information please visit,
www.CoralSpringsOphthalmology.com
